Rice: I want to help us through to the next round
WHUFC.com
Declan Rice is determined to make the most of his opportunity should Slaven Bilic select him for tonight's Carabao Cup third-round tie with Bolton Wanderers. The 18-year-old started West Ham United's opening four matches of the 2017/18 season, including the second-round victory at Cheltenham Town, before dropping to the substitutes' bench for the Premier League fixtures with Huddersfield Town and West Bromwich Albion. While his time on the pitch may have reduced, Rice is in line for another first-team appearance against Bolton on Tuesday evening, and is ready to take his chance to impress his manager once again. "This season has gone so quickly," he told the Official Matchday Programme. "I gave it everything in pre-season and the manager had plans for me and has played me, so I'm over the moon. "Tonight's is an important game in the Carabao Cup and we want to win. Hopefully I can play and help us get through to the next round."
In a revealing interview, Rice revealed how he had joined Chelsea almost by chance as a nine-year-old, when his cousin invited him along for a trial, before quickly getting over the shock of being released at the age of 14. The south west London-born youngster went on to praise his Academy of Football coaches for developing and improving him to the point where Bilic handed him a first-team debut at Burnley in May. Rice has since started against Manchester United, Southampton and Newcastle United in the top flight, made his Republic of Ireland U21 debut and is highly thought of by his coaches, teammates and fans for his calm and assured presence, leadership and technical ability. "West Ham have a tradition of playing out from the back and the coaches have always encouraged me to express myself," he said. "When I moved back into defence, they told me to stick to my own game, rather than hit the ball long, and it's helped me massively.
"I was on the bench a couple of times [late last season] and I thought I might get a chance and Burnley was my time to be brought on. I got about five minutes and touched the ball a few times, so I was well happy."
To read Declan's Official Matchday Programme interview in full, and find out which two former England internationals are mentoring him, pick up your copy at London Stadium before tonight's game, or alternatively order your copy online here.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic: We are thinking positively about the Cup
WHUFC.com
Slaven Bilic is keen for an extended run in the Carabao Cup this season with his West Ham United side set to take on Bolton Wanderers at London Stadium on Tuesday. The Hammers saw off Cheltenham Town in the second round of this competition and are eyeing up a spot in the last-16 for the third time in the last four seasons. Last term, Manchester United ended West Ham's run at the quarter-final stage, but with the road to Wembley getting shorter by the round, Bilic is determined to take as many steps along it as possible. He explained: "Of course, we are very ambitious and of course we are thinking about the cup in a positive way. We are not thinking about Spurs, we are thinking about Bolton because if we win, we are not far away from making it a big success for every individual and for the club. "We [would] need a good draw. We would need a few top performances, and you are talking about three, four games, it's not a league. It's a good chance for us, like it is for all the clubs. "I'm upbeat, if you are looking at the last week It has been a good week for us. We were on zero points having conceded ten goals in three games, now two games later we have four points and didn't concede in either game. We limited two teams to one or two chances."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ten amazing West Ham United debuts worth remembering
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have a number of youngsters alongside a host of senior players in the squad to take on Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday. Sead Haksabanovic and Nathan Holland are among the names hoping to make their first team debuts at the London Stadium, and if either does they would like a similar first showing to these ten West Ham stars...
Andy Carroll
Signed from Liverpool on loan in the summer of 2012, Carroll made his debut for the Hammers in the home contest with Fulham on 1 September. The striker gave the West Ham supporters a great idea of what he could offer, playing a vital role in two of the Hammers' three goals on their way to a dominant victory over the Cottagers.
Mauro Zarate
Argentinian Zarate made his first competitive appearance for West Ham in the fixture away at Crystal Palace, on 23 August 2014. The forward marked his first outing with a spectacular goal, meeting a poor, dropping clearance with the outside of his right foot to beat Julien Speroni in the Palace goal from 20 yards. The Hammers would win the game 3-1, continuing a strong start to the campaign.
Henri Lansbury
Henri Lansbury had joined the Hammers on loan from Arsenal for the 2011/12 campaign in the Championship, and the young midfielder made his mark instantly in a home match against Portsmouth. Lansbury showed his prowess when he was the first to connect with a loose ball in the penalty area, giving West Ham a 2-1 lead, before also winning the home side a penalty. The Irons would go on to win the contest 4-3.
Thomas Hitzlsperger
Thomas Hitzlsperger had to wait a number of months for his West Ham debut, having missed the start of the season due to injury, but the German certainly made up for lost time straight away. 'Der Hammer' proved why he had earned his nickname with a trademark thunderbolt of an effort to give the Irons the lead against Burnley in the FA Cup, putting West Ham on their way to an excellent 5-1 win at the Boleyn Ground.
Bobby Zamora
Having moved to West Ham from Tottenham, it didn't take long for Bobby Zamora to make his mark with the striker coming off the bench to net the winner in a 2-1 victory away to Bradford. Zamora would also score for the Irons on his home debut, helping his new side to a win against Cardiff City. Not too shabby!
Jermain Defoe
On this day 17 years ago West Ham United were struggling to get a result away at Walsall in the second round of the League Cup. Off the bench came a young forward called Jermain Defoe. The fresh-faced forward would then tuck home a typical striker's finish in the 84th minute, starting a career that would be filled with excellent goals, and plenty of them too!
Trevor Sinclair
Signed from QPR in January 1998, Trevor Sinclair made a real impact on his first showing for the Irons in a home match with Everton. The winger scored twice to help the Harry Redknapp's side earn a 2-2 draw, and would play a crucial role in the team's eventual eighth placed finish that campaign.
Tony Cottee
A 17-year-old Tony Cottee made his West Ham debut in January 1983, against London rivals Tottenham, and what a showing the youngster gave. Cottee endeared himself to the home supporters immediately by scoring in a 3-0 victory over Spurs. He would go on to score 146 goals across two spells for the Hammers, making him the fifth top scorer in the club's history.
Jimmy Greaves
With Martin Peters transferring to Tottenham, Jimmy Greaves was sent to West Ham in part exchange in March 1970. Greaves's first showing for the Irons came at Maine Road against Manchester City. The striker scored twice in that game, helping West Ham to a brilliant 5-1 win away from home.
Bobby Moore
Bobby Moore is the greatest icon in West Ham United history and therefore it's no surprise that even his debut was something special. Moore, then just 17-years-old, started for the Irons against Manchester United - the other club interested in his signature as a teenager - helping the team to a brilliant 3-2 win. It was the start of something that was simply sensational.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ladies' home clash with Charlton is opportunity to get season 'back on track' – De Carnys
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies manager Greg De Carnys believes this Wednesday's home clash with Charlton Athletic can be the fixture to get his side's campaign "back on track". The Ladies head into this midweek match on the back of three consecutive defeats but will take heart from the fact that they've won their only home game so far, a 4-3 victory against Cardiff City. The Hammers will have to be at their very best to beat a Charlton side that sit top of the league, having won all four of their league matches so far, scoring 16 goals in the process. But De Carnys believes his team have the grit and determination needed to get a positive result out of Wednesday's fixture at Rush Green. The first team manager pointed to the steel shown last season by the side in avoiding relegation and reckons that spirit will be needed against Athletic. "It will require all the character we have to beat a very strong Charlton outfit," De Carnys told whufc.com. "Having survived a tough relegation battle last year I know the girls have the character we need. It doesn't change. It's about fighting hard for every 50/50 and never giving up."
Season Ticket Holders and Claret Members can attend Wednesday's match at Rush Green – which kicks off at 7:45pm – for free, while other supporters can buy tickets on the gate for just £1. De Carnys reckons the support of the home crowd could be just what his team needs to get a strong result, one which could turn the Ladies' season around. He added: "The three points we won in our last home game feels a long way away right now but if we can produce another gritty performance like that one in front of our own fans then there is no reason we can't get something from the game and get our season back on track."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Trott impresses but Hammers 'need more focus'
WHUFC.com
Nathan Trott called on his side to have more focus in the big games after West Ham United under-23's suffered a 2-0 home defeat to Liverpool on Monday evening. The Hammers had previously enjoyed an unbeaten start to the 2017/18 season but have now suffered three straight defeats, the latest a result which extends Liverpool's own winning start to the campaign to five out of five. Two first half goals for the visitors was enough on a night where in truth, they controlled much of the game and were fully deserving of the three points. West Ham goalkeeper, Nathan Trott, who was called into action in spectacular fashion on a couple of occasions during the match, blamed a lack of focus at times for the performance. "We were organised at times but we need to be more focused if we're going win games against teams like this" he explained. "Everyone put in lots of work in the first half and we definitely improved in the second half, I just think we tired from not having too much of the ball."
Among a small handful of other chances, West Ham were awarded a first half penalty with the score at 2-0 but Toni Martinez failed to convert. Had the Spaniard scored, Trott felt the result could have been different. "Toni's penalty was unlucky, it was a good shot but unfortunately the keeper went the right way. "We had a couple more chances and if we had put some of them away the game would have been a lot different to how it ended."
Despite falling the wrong side of a 2-0 result, Trott once again impressed between the sticks for the Hammers, make a number of top saves which kept his side in contention. "I'm always happy to make saves and contribute to the game" he said. "But ultimately, we're not happy with the result. Next week, we need to keep the shots against us a lot lower if we're to win."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Betway Insider's View of the Opposition: Bolton Wanderers
WHUFC.com
Considering West Ham shared their top-flight status with Bolton for a full 10 years, it is strange to think the clubs were separated by two divisions last season.
That gap has now been cut to one after Wanderers' promotion from League One, though it looks unlikely to remain that way for long. A strict transfer embargo – that was lifted on Thursday but had prevented the club from paying a fee for any permanent or loan signings since December 2015 – meant Bolton were unable to do much strengthening over the summer. As a result, they are currently bottom of the Championship, having failed to win any of their first eight matches. Worse still, Reece Burke and Josh Cullen – their two loanees from West Ham who have both featured heavily so far this season – are ineligible to face their parent club on Tuesday.
So their chances of an upset at the London Stadium look slim. Even in the third tier last season, Bolton were far from prolific – ending up with just the joint-fifth highest goals tally at an average of less than 1.5 per game. And they have not looked any sharper after the summer, failing to score in their last four matches in a row. Given the Hammers have won their last three cup ties against lower-league opposition – against Cheltenham last month, Accrington last season and Wolves in 2015/16 – to nil, a similar outcome looks likely.
Slaven Bilic's side should not have to wait too long for the breakthrough, either. The Trotters have trailed at half-time in five of their first eight league matches – losing all of them – and even found themselves behind at the break when taking on League Two side Crewe in the previous round. It is the Hammers' pacier players who are likely to cause the most damage, with neither Mark Beevers nor David Wheater blessed with much pace in the centre of defence. Wingers Adama Traore and Kamil Grosicki, meanwhile, have shown just how easy it is to get in behind Bolton's full-backs for both Hull and Middlesbrough in recent weeks. Javier Hernandez will be relishing the chance to finish off the opportunities that will surely come his way.
RECOMMENDED BETS
West Ham to win to nil - 6/5
Half-time/Full-time: West Ham/West Ham - 19/20
Javier Hernandez to score West Ham's first goal - 5/2
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rio Ferdinand missed the 'chemical' of competition and sees boxing as 'great way to get it back'
ES Sport
Rio Ferdinand has announced his extraordinary plans to become a professional boxer and hopes to fight for an English title next year. The 38-year-old has already hired former WBC super-middleweight Champion and respected Team GB coach Richie Woodhall as his trainer. Ferdinand, who won six Premier League titles and a Champions League crown with Manchester United during his football career as well as 81 England caps, is doing the 'Defender to Contender' project in conjunction with online betting company Betfair. Speaking exclusively to Standard Sport, Ferdinand said: "A lot of people sit and watch huge fights, plus other sporting events and say 'I can do that' or 'they've messed it up'. "There are a lot of armchair fans wanting to pass judgement. Well, I'm going to walk the walk and actually do it.
"I'm into keeping fit and one of the big things I have missed since retiring from football in 2015 is the competition, whether it be as a team or as an individual going one-on-one against a striker. "I just miss that chemical that comes out of you. I have not been able to replace it. This is a great way to get that back. "I'm doing this for many reasons. I'm doing this to test myself as a man, as a human being. "Can I change sports? Can I be a respectable performer in other sports? Can my body get through it? "Can I mentally get up early at 5-6am in the morning when it is dark and cold to go on long, dirty runs? Then get back, take my kids to school, go to the gym and eat properly all of the time. "This is a test of my mind and body, that's the way I'm looking at it. I'm not looking at it to become the world champion, I'm not stupid."
Ferdinand is going to fight at Cruiserweight, but will have several weeks of training under Woodhall and his personal trainer Mel Deane before applying for a licence from the British Boxing Board of Control. Woodhall went to Ferdinand's house to assess the former centre half's fitness and boxing ability before agreeing to become his trainer. He said: "In all honesty, I think Rio can definitely box as a professional given time. He has natural power in his right hand, is extremely fit and is very enthusiastic to learn which is encouraging. "Style wise he's very raw and I'll have to develop this which will take time but he has all the natural ingredients, height and reach advantages over boxers in his weight division and definitely has potential to win a title in the future." Betfair also helped Victoria Pendleton make the transition from Olympic cyclist to Cheltenham jockey last year in the ground-breaking 'Switching Saddles' challenge.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham vs Bolton: EFL Cup prediction, team news, line-ups, start time, live, TV, head to head, odds
ALEX YOUNG
ES Sport
West Ham will name a strong team for their midweek League Cup clash with Bolton. Slaven Bilic has talked up the Hammers' "ambition" and face the Championship side's bottom side who are without a league win all season. West Ham have only one victory to their name this term, but made easy work of Cheltenham Town in the previous round after reaching the quarter-final the previous campaign.
Start time
West Ham will host Bolton Wanderers with kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm on Tuesday, September 19.
TV and live online coverage
The match will be not be televised live on TV in the UK. Alternatively, you can follow live goal updates with Standard Sport.
Team news
Andy Carroll will be rested for the League Cup third-round tie at home to Bolton on Tuesday evening. The striker has suffered from a string of injuries in recent years but is now back fit and will be given the night off to rest up ahead of the weekend visit of rivals Tottenham. Slaven Bilic is likely to make some changes as captain Mark Noble is expected to start following a knee injury, but promised a "strong side" when speaking to reporters on Monday. "It's a big game for us and all we are thinking about," he said. "We are very ambitious, as are all the clubs still in the competition. "We are playing home against Bolton and there are going to be some changes, but they are going to be the players who have already played for us in the Premier League this season and also last season."
Predicted line-ups
West Ham starting XI: Adrian; Fonte, Ogbonna, Masuaku; Byram, Noble, Rice, Cresswell; Fernandes, Sakho, Chicharito
Betting odds (via betfair)
West Ham to win: 3/10
Bolton to win: 10/1
Draw: 24/5
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rio Ferdinand: I'm excited, not scared, and ready to give boxing my best shot
EXCLUSIVE
ES Sport
Rio Ferdinand's love affair with boxing began as a kid growing up on Peckham's Friary Estate and having a bit of fun with his friends. "One of my mates had a pair of Henry Cooper-type gloves and we used to settle little scores," the former England centre-half explained to Standard Sport. "We'd go round the back and have a tear up. One of us would be the ref and the other two would fight. "There was no technical side to it, there was no one sitting to the side coaching you and pointing out what you were doing wrong. We'd just slug it out." Here we are, three decades later, and Ferdinand is about to pull on the gloves again, yet the circumstances could not be any more different this time around. The 38-year-old is aiming to become a professional; not only that, he has set his sights on winning an English title at cruiserweight next year. Ferdinand, who won 10 major trophies during his time at Manchester United and was capped 81 times by England, is fully aware that there will be plenty of negativity coming his way at the news of Tuesday's announcement. It doesn't faze him one bit. "Do I have a message for the critics?" he said. "Yes, support me. That would be nice. I know many people will say I can't do it. Proving people wrong will definitely be a motivation. It was the case in my football career and is the same now."
To those do not know Ferdinand very well, the decision will not make much sense. Football has provided the central defender with riches and winners' medals. He is now respected as a football pundit on television, too. This seems like a good time to relax, not enter into one of the toughest sporting arenas there is. But the ease of his working life is part of the problem. "One of the big things I have missed since retiring from football in 2015 is the competition, whether it be as a team or as an individual, going one on one against a striker," he said. "I just miss that chemical that comes out of you. I have not been able to replace it. This is a great way to get that back. "I'm doing this for many reasons. I'm doing this to test myself as a man, as a human being. Can I change sports? Can I be a respectable performer in other sports? Can my body get through it? Mentally, can I get up at 5 or 6 in the morning when it is dark and cold to go on long, dirty runs, then get back, take my kids to school, go to the gym and continue to eat properly? "A lot of people sit and watch huge fights, plus other sporting events and say, 'I can do that' or 'They've messed it up'. There are a lot of armchair fans wanting to pass judgment. "Well, I'm going to walk the walk and actually do it."
One of Ferdinand's greatest strengths as a footballer was an unshakeable determination to achieve his ambitions. It will serve him in good stead. But as a father to three young children, some may question why he would want to put himself in harm's way. After all, due to trainer Richie Woodhall's careful training programme, Ferdinand will not know for at least 10 weeks whether he can actually take a punch in a sparring session. Those closest to him were not afraid to speak up on hearing what Ferdinand was planning. "A lot of people have said to me, 'You're crazy, what are you doing?', he said. "But I have always been my own man and I will make the decisions I want to make. "No-one has tried to persuade me not to do it because they know me better than that. I didn't need much convincing or take long to think about it. As soon as I was asked I said, 'Yes, let's go. I'll do it. Give me the details'. "Maybe it was something inside, without knowing it, I was searching for anyway. Something to give me a focus, a sense of purpose. There are no doubts, just excitement at the moment. That may change once I get in the ring and take a few digs. "Who knows how I'm going to react? That's the thing that's going to excite me even more. I'm going into the unknown. I'm not scared about it, I'm thrilled by it."
One might think a player of his vast experience would be better off putting his energies back into football, through management or coaching. That is still on the agenda; it has just been put on hold for now. "I'm going to study for my coaching badges one day, but I'm not ready to go into football management just yet," he said. "It will have to wait. I wouldn't have been able to do it within the next one or two years anyway."
Still, what if this all goes spectacularly wrong, as many experts will expect and he fails to win an English title or even worse, gets humiliated in the ring? "I won't have any regrets whatever happens," he insisted. "I want to find out if I can get through this. Can I get past my first opponent and win a fight? It's a challenge to answer. "If I lose, I lose. That is part and parcel of life. You don't always win. But after my time in boxing ends, I will go knowing I have worked as hard as I can."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pressure on Marko Arnautovic to impress on home debut after sending off in West Ham's loss at Southampton
KEN DYER
ES Sport
West Ham's record signing Marko Arnautovic makes his London Stadium debut tonight, knowing that a good performance will put pressure on Slaven Bilic to play him in Saturday's derby against Tottenham. The £25million summer signing from Stoke has just returned from a three-match suspension following his red card in the second match of the season, at Southampton. Arnautovic came on as a second half substitute in the goalless draw at West Brom on Saturday but is now looking to regain his place up-front in manager Bilic's first choice line-up. Bilic looks certain to make significant changes for tonight's Carabao Cup tie against Championship side Bolton but is looking for players like Arnautovic to prove a point and make it difficult for him to leave them out. The West Ham manager said: "I will make some changes but it will be a strong team and it's a good opportunity for these players. "We're looking for improvement, a few of the places are quite open and it's up to them to impress my staff, the press and the fans."
Bilic is still searching for the right blend and admits that striker Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez has been employed out of position in order to help his team turn around a poor start to the season during which they conceded 10 goals in their first three Premier League matches. "Our priority was to stop losing games and conceding goals," he said. "We have been working on getting that stability back and in the last two games we have four points and two clean sheets. "It's a lot on which to build and now is the time to be more dangerous and create more chances. It's very hard to please everyone and I am thinking about that a lot. It's difficult to play both Andy Carroll and Chicharito in their ideal positions, especially when you are playing three at the back. "I have spoken to Chicharito. He is a great lad and I said we have priorities and at this moment the team needs you there."
Bilic will rest Carroll tonight while Hernandez could start on the bench. "We have to manage Andy," said Bilic, "but he looks good, he looks fit. He won't play against Bolton but especially now, when he's just come back, we will try and avoid him playing three full games in a week." Diafra Sakho replaces Carroll up front while Andre Ayew should start in place of Hernandez, with Adrian in goal.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Haven't been, won't go
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 19th September 2017
By: Staff Writer
Comedian, writer and lifelong Hammers fan Phill Jupitus says he will not watch his beloved team at the Olympic Stadium. Jupitus, who shot to fame as a poet (Porky the Poet) and stand-up comedian was a regular visitor to the Boleyn Ground and became part of the team working on Fortunes Always Hiding, a popular fanzine from the early 1990s. However in conversation with Talksport's Hawksbee and Jacobs, the 55-year-old - who recently moved from Leigh-on-Sea to Fife in Scotland - insisted that he would never visit the Olympic Stadium.
"Haven't been, won't go," said Jupitus, when asked to give his verdict on the Stratford arena. "'ll go and see them away if I'm not doing anything. I didn't see anything wrong with the ground as it was. It's just the way sport is going. "I remember when I used to wake up on Saturday [when I lived in Bow] and it was an option. 'Shall we go to the football today?' - you remember that feeling? I miss that, just having the option to go. "It's like the final crystallisation of everything that has happened to football, the changes and evolution over the last 20 years of the game. "At that amazing and beautiful ground at Upton Park you could touch them [the players] - they didn't like it, but you could touch them! You were that close to the action. "The management at Fenway Park in Boston were looking at the same thing but they consulted the fans and the fans were like 'we don't want to go'. "So they didn't go and they've been redeveloping the site as it is. I think we should have redeveloped the East Stand, where the Chicken Run was." I know there will be people screaming at their radios now - especially two short blokes with a woman in the background saying 'calm down, calm down' - but I'm one of the ones who thinks we shouldn't have moved. "I'm sure the people who go will love it, but there was just too much change that I didn't like."
You may listen to the full interview with Jupitus on Talksport.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United v Bolton Wanderers
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 18th September 2017
By: Preview Percy
It's fair to say that Preview Percy wasn't over-impressed with the entertainment value of the weekend's visit to The Hawthorns. In fact we actually had to wake him up to write a few words about the League Cup visit of Bolton Wanderers. Expect much grumpiness. As usual.....
Next we take a break from the day to day stuff of the league for a 3rd round League Cup tie at home to Bolton Wanderers. Kick-off is 7:45pm on Tuesday so enjoy the rush hour traffic and train tribulations and have a gander at the travel websites before you leave.
So Bolton then. Not a great start to the season it should be said. They currently anchor the table in what used to be called Division 2 having picked up just the 2 points so far this season. They have lost six of the 8 played so far, both points coming on the road courtesy of a 1-1 at Millwall and a goalless draw at Birmingham City. Other than that it's been defeats all the way, the latest being a 2-0 reverse at Ipswich last weekend. Reports suggest that they were not without chances at Portman Road but a deflected goal just after the break and an 89th minute clincher were enough to ensure that they remained bottom with there already being a four point gap between them and safety. Boss Phil Parkinson may be looking nervously over his shoulder.
Parkinson has the record of being the only manager to take a 4th tier club to the final of a major competition getting his Bradford City side to the final of this self-same League Cup back in 2013 where they ran up against a brick wall and went down 5-0 to Swansea. So Parkinson does have a bit of pedigree in a competition that has been a bit of a blessed release from the trials and tribulations of League life for Bolton. In round 1 Crewe were sent packing 2-1 on their own ground. In the second round they disposed of Sheffield Wednesday, going 3-0 up through Karacan, Dervite and Armstrong before late goals from Rhodes got them slightly worried. They eventually prevailed but, despite the League Cup being the one ray of sunshine in an otherwise dismal season so far, not even they could be bothered to stay up until 4am to listen to the draw live.
Having been promoted from whatever that particular league was called last season, the work-experience kid of as yet-to-be determined gender wearing a hoodie who seems only able to communicate with some strange grunting noises tells me that they brought in 8 new players on permanent deals, though only two of those involved a transfer fee. The list of arrivals sounds like a veritable Who's Who of lower league journeymen whose names will be familiar to anyone who watches the scores come in on the telly. Try this little lot for size: Adam Le Fondre, Will Buckley, Sammy Ameobi, Craig Noone, Mark Little, Aaron Wilbreham, Andrew Taylor and Stephen Darby. Even a club aspiring to mid-table mediocrity would be struggling to be whelmed by that lot.
Of slightly more, if somewhat academic, interest are two of the four loan hires they have on the books at the moment in the form of Josh Cullen and Reece Burke. Both have featured regularly in the Trotters' first XI so, despite the tough start to the season they will at least be getting some toughening up under their respective belts. The loan deal should not have come as too much of a surprise to many – Trotters boss Parkinson had signed both on loan during his spell at Bradford a while back so he is more than aware of their capabilities. The pair are not available for selection for this one under the rules applying to the loan deal.
In a side that has mustered 4 goals in 8 league games it's difficult to place much emphasis on the identity of the top scorer. However, for what it's worth, top man in the league is Gary Madine who has a brace to his name. He is joined in the "all competitions" table by young Newcastle loan striker Adam Armstrong, who has been on target in both their League Cup matches thus far. He might be one to watch as part of that odd thing that sees some players have hot spells in particular competitions. His best spell was the 15-16 season spent with Coventry where he hit 20 in 40 matches, though he has yet to open his scoring in the 17 first XI league appearances he has made for his parent club. He was part of the England U20 squad this summer, picking up a World Cup winner's medal as an unused sub in the 1-0 final win over Venezuela.
And so to us. Well the West Brom game wasn't much to write home about. I tried. They returned the letter.
They seemed so frightened of losing two on the trot after the Brighton game they quite forgot that they were the team beginning with "West" who were at home. Their end of season DVD compilation will be a barrel of laughs on that showing. Obiang's shot that came off the bar was about the only thing of note through the whole match really. It was odd because I was only thinking during the warm-up how rare such efforts were given how much time 'keepers spend off their line.
Talking of 'keepers Foster was a bit lucky, wasn't he? Tierney was so busy making sure that he didn't issue an erroneous red for denial of goalscoring opportunity (or DOGSO as it's known in the trade) that he completely forgot to consider the nature of the challenge itself which, with two feet off the ground, could easily have been thought of as a straight red, and probably would have been had it been an outfield player.
Good as the away point was (in terms of its intrinsic value) one still has concerns. The recent move to a back three does suit the defenders available to us who, if I can put this kindly, are not what you might call blessed with an awful lot of pace. However, lining up in this manner does come with a cost, that being the tendency for two of your front three to play wide and a bit deep. Antonio is ok on the right – he has a natural width to his game – but Hernandez is wasted out on the left. Given his reputation (or "rep" as I believe the kids say) for being at home in the penalty area it would seem logical to try and play to that particular strength. It's almost as if we have been told "you can have either a decent defence or a decent attack – but not both".
There's good and bad news on the injury front. Ginge's ankle looked serious enough to keep him out for some time – well done to the ignorant tossers at West Brom who booed him. Noble and Fernandes are said to be close to a return and then we have Lanzini. The little Argentinian was sorely missed at The Hawthorns and, though the official list stills show him as a major doubt, the word is that the player has been training for a bit but won't be risked for this one.
We can expect a number of changes. I would have thought Zabaleta might have a night off given that he has four of the five yellow cards required for an enforced week's break at this stage of the season. One would imagine that the likes of Byram and Ogbonna will get to stretch their legs whilst Sakho and Ayew may also start.
Prediction? Well I know we have this "rep" for coming up short against the lower orders but even with an alternative starting XI we ought to have enough to get past Bolton. I will therefore place the traditional £2.50 on the counter at Winstone the Turf Accountant in return for a wager for a 3-1 home win, thus seeing us through to the next round which, on past form, will take place on Thursday at 3am in a slient running submarine sitting off the coast of Alaska, the final draw to be delivered by a suitably graffiti-ed cruise missile aimed in the general direction of North Korea.
Well it's no more stupid than the draws for the previous rounds.
Enjoy the game!
When Last We Met At The Boleyn Lost 1-3 Premier League August 2010
A bizarre game that, had we taken our early chances we would have won by a cricket score. A boot to Upson's face from Davies prompted an OG as Marriner waved play on. Four hours later Upson's face was still not in any fit state to be x-rayed which was interesting, given Marriner's insistence that nothing had happened. We bossed the match but were suckered into conceding a second from Elmander with 20 left. A Noble penalty – one of five that ought to have been awarded – gave hope but Davies wrestled Gabbidon to the ground, Taylor played the ball through to Elmander with his arm and we were 3-1 down. These things even themselves up according to some idiots. I'm waiting…
Referee: Simon Hooper
One of the second tier of professional referees so we haven't encountered him so far. A quick google search seems to indicate that Mr Hooper's full name is "Controversial Referee Simon Hooper". His highlight of the season so far was sending off a Fulham defender within 30 seconds of the start of a match for a very dubious DOGSO decision. According to a genuinely neutral observer of my acquaintance he then ignored all sorts of nailed-on yellow card offences for the next 70 minutes. A potential leveller then.
Danger Man: Adam Armstrong
Selected as a horse for this particular League Cup course.
Percy's Poser:
Last week we asked you "what is Jermain Jenas's problem?" Congratulations to Mrs Dorothy Stormy-Petrel of Harlow New Town who correctly stated "he's a no mark ex footballer who thinks ten minutes of media training will somehow cover up for a lack of knowledge and the fact that he is using his platform to peddle his petty prejudices to the licence paying public". Well done Dorothy!
This week we take you back to 1923 and the famous "White Horse" final to ask you: What was the name of the horse and what happened to him after the final.
Best of luck everyone!
Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, nor should be attributed to, KUMB.com.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Why the London Stadium is better than Wembley
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 19th September 2017
By: Staff Writer #3
West Ham's move to the London Stadium last season brought a lot of media and fan attention – though mostly negative. Many opposing supporters, particularly Leyton Orient and Tottenham Hotspur, were against the move with the great deal that both David Gold and David Sullivan got for the club. The previous season of 2015/16 Slaven Bilic had excelled in taking us to a 7th place finish with nine wins at the Boleyn Ground and only three defeats. Much pressure was on us to perform at the London Stadium, but it all got off to a negative start with elimination from the UEFA Europa League at home to Romanian minnows Astra Giurgiu, at home. The Premier League season didn't get much better – we were in a relegation battle for part of it and ended the season with eight home defeats and only seven wins at our new home.
Pressure of playing at the London Stadium? Or just the players we had? One of those victories however was against this weekend's rivals, Tottenham. West Ham odds are currently out at 6.0 to pull off a repeat of last season's victory. Spurs decided to follow in our footsteps this season by moving to Wembley Stadium, albeit a temporary deal whilst White Hart Lane is being renovated. Mauricio Pochettino's side had performed unsuccessfully at the home of English football in last season's Champions League as they dropped into the Europa League in a group they were widely-considered to win, versus AS Monaco, Bayer 04 Leverkusen and CSKA Moscow. Then in the Europa League they were dumped out by Belgium First League A side, Gent, following a 2-2 draw at Wembley. Spurs have started the 2017-18 Premier League season without a win at their temporary home. The first-ever Premier League game at Wembley saw them beaten 1-2 by Chelsea, before being held 1-1 by Burnley and 0-0 by Swansea – the latter two both expected to be in the bottom half if not battling relegation this season.
Pressure of playing at the national stadium? Unlucky? Simply a slow start to the season? Or the bigger pitch not suiting Pochettino's tactics? Unlike Spurs, we got a win on our opening home game this season – a solid performance in beating Huddersfield Town 2-0 on Monday night football. The first goals the newly-promoted Terriers had conceded this season. Results aside, the graphic below from Betfair highlights that the London Stadium is much closer to the Boleyn compared to Wembley and White Hart Lane. Though this doesn't affect Spurs fans greatly as most of them come from much further away. What's more, the pies and pints are also cheaper for the fans at our new stadium!
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Haksabanovic, Arnautovic & Rice start - how West Ham should line up against Bolton
This is how we would like to see the Hammers take to the field
Football London
BYSAM INKERSOLE
14:13, 19 SEP 2017
Slaven Bilic admitted he will be changing around his squad for West Ham's Carabao Cup tie against Bolton Wanderers at the London Stadium this evening (Tuesday). The likes of Pablo Zabaleta, Javier Hernandez, Aaron Cresswell and Michail Antonio will be rested for the League Cup tie in E20 and it gives an opportunity for others top stake their claims. Arthur Masuaku and Sam Byram are almost certain to get 90 minutes, while youngsters Domingos Quina, Sead Haksabanovic, Declan Rice and Nathan Holland are all in the squad. With that in mind, here is how we think the Hammers should line up in Stratford.
How we think the Hammers should line up
Yes, it's four at the back.
Angelo Ogbonna gets a recall and also a chance to prove himself with the absence of James Collins for at least a month following his ankle injury, while Masuaku and Byram operate a full back and Rice gets a start in his preferred position of centre half. Mark Noble returns from injury tonight so he's straight back in, while Haksabanovic and Pedro Obiang make up the midfield. The front three consists of three players with something to prove in Diafra Sakho, Marko Arnautovic and Andre Ayew.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Was West Ham's Martin Samuelsen over-hyped or does he just need time?
HITC
Vincent Ralph
The West Ham United midfielder has fallen off the radar after initially impressing. When West Ham United initially signed Martin Samuelsen it looked like the Hammers had pulled off a masterstroke, but things have not exactly gone according to plan for the young Norwegian in the time that followed. After some impressive showings for West Ham in their pre-season preparations of 2015, where the teenager showed his passing range and composure on the ball, he quickly found himself making do with under-23 football before a loan spell at Peterborough United started to demonstrate what all the fuss was about. Samuelsen's balance, confidence and innate talent shone during that initial spell and he was expected to make a name for himself back at the Hammers soon after.
That did not happen, and a disappointing return to Posh, along with a doomed temporary stint at Blackburn Rovers, set Samuelsen back at exactly the time when he should have been pushing for a Hammers' debut. This season he is back with West Ham's under-23 side, but two years since his arrival he seems no closer to that allusive senior chance. Now 20, Samuelsen needs to prove his worth over the current campaign or risk failing to make the breakthrough many felt was only a matter of time. West Ham have some of the best young players in the country on their books, yet manager Slaven Bilic has been reluctant to test them unless he absolutely has to. Samuelsen is just one to suffer as a consequence, with Reece Oxford currently warming the bench at Borussia Monchengladbach, Toni Martinez making light work of second string football and the youngest of the lot, Domingos Quina, edging ever closer to his first start.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WILSHERE HOPING TO SECURE JANUARY WEST HAM MOVE
MICHAEL OLIVER @MichaelOIiver
ReadWestHam
In the early weeks of the season, West Ham have missed the guile and creativity of Manuel Lanzini in the final third, and the fact that the Hammers have netted just four goals in five games is a testament to that. The Argentine playmaker has been sidelined with a knee injury and isn't expected to return until after the next international break, and West Ham really could do with a midfielder who can operate between the lines and spot passes. West Ham were linked with a summer move for Jack Wilshere but were put off by Arsenal's £20m asking price, says the Daily Star, but the England international is desperate to complete a January transfer to the club he's supported since he was a boy. With just a year left to run on his contract, Wilshere is resigned to the fact he will be leaving Arsenal at the end of the season no matter what with the Gunners having made no attempt to open talks over a new deal with the midfielder. Wilshere impressed on loan at Bournemouth last season but injuries continue to plague him after suffering a fractured leg at the end of last season which caused him to miss the start of the 2017/18 campaign. Having made his first appearance for Arsenal in 18 months in the Europa League clash with Cologne last week, Wilshere is hoping to impress in Europe and in the Carabao Cup in order to earn a January transfer to the Hammers so he can look to rebuild his stuttering career. West Ham are a man light in midfield and a player of Wilshere's profile does fit the bill of someone the club would like to take a punt on, but whether they sanction the deal remains to be seen.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Why West Ham United should grant Jack Wilshere's wish
HITC
John Verrall
West Ham United should make a move for Arsenal's Jack Wilshere in January, after reports emerge suggesting he wants to switch to the London Stadium. According to the Daily Star, Jack Wilshere wants to earn a move to West Ham United and Slaven Bilic should grant the midfielder his wish. Wilshere is said to be keen to leave Arsenal, with West Ham his first choice. The 25-year-old is believed to be hoping to impress West Ham's scouting team with his performances in cup competition. If Wilshere can catch the eye, West Ham shouldn't think twice about bringing the former England international to the London Stadium. Wilshere's career may have stalled in recent times, but he remains a wonderful talent on his day. Although a succession of injuries have certainly hampered his progress, if West Ham could nurse Wilshere back to his best then he would be a massive upgrade on what they already have. And, with Wilshere so determined to impress West Ham, there would surely be no doubting his commitment to making his time with Bilic's side a success, if a move did come off. As a result, the positives of the transfer far outweigh any negatives - and West Ham should grant Wilshere his wish, by offering him an escape route out of Arsenal in January.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham face up to a month without Manuel Lanzini as star playmaker suffers significant injury setback
Manuel Lanzini's recovery from a knee injury has stalled significantly
It means the Hammers could be without their star Argentine until October
Boss Slaven Bilic will rest Andy Carroll for Tuesday's Carabao Cup clash
Bilic believes it's 'almost impossible' to play Carroll with Javier Hernandez
By Oliver Todd for the Daily Mail
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 18 September 2017 | UPDATED: 22:58, 18 September 2017
West Ham are facing up to another month without star playmaker Manuel Lanzini with his recovery from a knee injury stalling significantly. Lanzini has only played 45 minutes this season and is struggling to make progress towards a return, training alone throughout September. Tuesday's Carabao Cup clash with Bolton Wanderers would have presented an ideal opportunity to ease the Argentine back in — but manager Slaven Bilic does not expect him back until after the October international break now. Bilic will rest Andy Carroll at the London Stadium, another player plagued by injury trouble, after admitting he cannot call on his striker to play three times in eight days. But while Carroll's game-time is simply being moderated, Lanzini is not ready at all. He has suffered issues with his movement since being sent home from Argentina's camp last month. 'Lanzini is as close now as he was a couple of days before he started to train before the Newcastle game (in August),' Bilic said. 'He's doing everything but he is not training with us as in one movement he still feels the injury. We don't want to risk it. 'He's going to be definitely be ready after the international break. Will he be ready before, for the Swansea game? Hopefully… is it 100 per cent? No. You have the things that you hoping for — a timetable — and then you have a much more realistic timetable.' Bilic believes he needs the creativity of Lanzini, 24, before he can begin to play Carroll in a strike pairing with £16million signing Javier Hernandez. For now, he says it is 'almost impossible' to field the two hitmen together upfront. Carroll will miss Tuesday's game against Bolton while Hernandez is set to be on the bench with Diafra Sakho starting. 'I think about that the most [playing two up front], but it's very hard to put them as their ideal positions as two strikers,' Bilic said. 'It looks good on paper, but then it's very hard to have three at three at the back (in defence). It's almost impossible. Of course, I'm thinking about that.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic gives Manuel Lanzini injury update as West Ham star remains on the sidelines
The Argentine has managed just 45 minutes of football this season
Football London
COMMENTS
BYSAM INKERSOLE
22:45, 18 SEP 2017
Slaven Bilic admitted Manuel Lanzini hasn't begun "proper training" with the West Ham squad as he recovers from a knee problem. Lanzini has played just 45 minutes of football this season owing to a knee injury first picked up in pre-season then aggravated during the 3-0 reverse at Newcastle last month Bilic's side desperately lack creativity without "The Jewel" in their side, none more evident than during their dire 0-0 draw with West Brom at the weekend and owing to them scoring just four goals this season. Lanzini is training at Rush Green but individually as the boss admitted there is one specific movement where he still feels discomfort in his knee. The Hammers boss said Lanzini might be ready for Swansea but it's more likely to be after the next international break, effectively ruling him out of the visit of Spurs this weekend in the Premier League as well. "Lanzini is as close as he was a couple of days before he started to train before Newcastle. He is still a little bit away from starting training," Bilic said. "He's doing everything but he is not training with us as in one movement he still feels it. Only in one movement and we don't want to risk. He's going to be definitely be ready after the international break. Will he be ready before, for the Swansea game? Maybe. "But after the international break he will definitely be playing. Hopefully he will be OK for the Swansea game but is it 100 per cent? No it is not."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United still waiting for a work permit for Ghanaian goalkeeper Joseph Anang
Published on: 19 September 2017
GhanaSoccernet.com
English Premier League side West Ham United are working round the clock to secure Ghanaian goalkeeper Joseph Anang a work permit. Anang started his youth career at his native Danbort FC before joining Ghanaian top-tier side Wa Allstars FC. A goalkeeper who highlights his kicking and reflexes as his main strengths, Anang reportedly made a positive impression on both players and coaches alike while on trial with the east London side. He finally signed a three-year deal with the Hammer in August and the club has slapped in an offer for a work permit. He has been training with the first team as back up to Joe Hart and Adrian at the club's Rush Green training complex in Romford.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reece Oxford still hasn't featured for Gladbach
Calm down — it's going to be fine
by Chad Hoy@ChadHoy Sep 19, 2017, 2:00am EDT
BraceTheHammer
Reece Oxford has been out on loan for all of three months now, and some fans are starting to get up in arms about his playing time at his adoptive club Borussia Mönchengladbach. We are here today to let you know that this is perfectly fine, and in fact, it makes sense — do not fret mon frere!
Fellow Brace the Hammer writer, Jonathan Lines, had this to say on the subject:
Surely we didn't expect he'd be straight up first choice. Gladbach have got [Matthias] Ginter and [Jannik] Vestergaard [at center-back]. Think the move will be really excellent for his development and he probably has a better chance of some action; but at the end of the day, we've loaned him to a team who are better than us, so. . .
Gladbach is a good side with a clever coach. Oxford will have time and space to grow without pressure. Look up Gladbach kids making it big. There have been a few, plus a few who still play there, having grown up at the club. They have some class players like Christoph Kramer and [Reece] will develop and grow a lot in the environment. He's first reserve which is better than West Ham. Who knows what may happen if he gets a chance.
Jonathan raises a few important points here, one being that Oxford is essentially in a better place learning in a Champions-League-level football program. If West Ham United played Borussia Mönchengladbach right now, they'd get absolutely handled. If Reece isn't first choice at West Ham, how could any fan just expect him to walk on at a club that's a regular participant in UEFA Champions League competition?
Reece Oxford is quite a player. We all know this. We saw it when he pocketed Mesut Özil as a 16-year-old. However, one good game two seasons ago does not a Premier League player make. Oxford is developing well, regardless of the playing time he's getting. Obviously playing time is pertinent to player improvement, but the time Oxford is putting in — even just in training — at a club like Gladbach is doing a lot for his long-term development. Playing time will come eventually, surely. Should it not, though, this loan spell is better than another year playing in the Championship, or training with West Ham's U21 squad.
At the end of the day, Reece Oxford is eighteen years old. He's got plenty of time to establish himself as a top center-back. If we're not absolutely certain that Oxford would be an upgrade over José Fonte, Angelo Ogbonna, Winston Reid, or James Collins (injuries notwithstanding) at this point, then he's better off in his current situation.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
James Collins reveals extent of injury after scan results for West Ham defender
The defender limped out of the Hammers' match against West Brom
Football London
BYADAM JONES
07:00, 19 SEP 2017
James Collins has good news for West Ham fans after scan results revealed the extent of the defender's injury yesterday. The 34-year-old limped out of the Hammers' 0-0 draw with West Bromwich Albion on Saturday and was withdrawn at half time - with a scan due on the ankle injury yesterday. The Wales defender has been in fantastic form for West Ham over the last two matches as Slaven Bilic's side have successfully managed to their form around after a disappointing start to the campaign. And Collins revealed on Instagram yesterday some good news for West Ham fans - as the results of his scan were not as bad as first expected.
The defender posted a picture of him limping off the pitch at the Hawthorns on Instagram with the caption: "Scan has reported ligament damage in my ankle but not as bad as first feared. Working hard already to be back in 3-4 weeks." That's much better news for the Hammers after Slaven Bilic admitted he was fearing the worst when Collins was initially withdrawn from the goalless draw at the weekend. If that injury time-frame is accurate then Collins could potentially be back for either West Ham's home tie against Brighton on October 20 or the trip to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace on October 28.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fitness chief Gary Lewin squashes Manuel Lanzini cup match rumours
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United fitness chief Gary Lewin has squashed rumours doing the rounds about star man Manuel Lanzini. The Hammers have recovered from a dreadful start to the season to record back-to-back clean sheets and four points, lifting them out of the relegation zone. But while the the 2-0 win over Huddersfield and 0-0 draw with West Bromwich Albion have proved the East Londoners have the stomach to grind out results it has not been easy on the eye. One player who could change all that, star creative influence Manuel Lanzini. The Argentine playmaker has been missing for most of the season so far bar a premature return as a half-time substitute in the 3-0 drubbing at Newcastle. Lanzini has been injured ever since but rumours have been circulating online that he could return to the side this week ahead of the big London derby against Tottenham Hotspur and may even get some minutes under his belt in the midweek Carabao Cup match against Bolton Wanderers. But former England and Arsenal physio Gary Lewin, now West Ham's fitness chief, had some bad news for Hammers fans on the club's official website revealing Lanzini is some way off a return yet. "Manuel Lanzini is a bit further away but still on schedule in terms of his rehabilitation from the knee injury that he irritated up at Newcastle last month," Lewin told whufc.com. "He is back on the training pitches and working hard, and we are looking at him being available again after the next international break."
The news will be hugely disappointing for supporters ahead of the huge derby against rivals Spurs. Lanzini got the only goal of the game as West Ham ended Tottenham's title hopes for the second successive season back in May.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, September 19
Daily WHUFC News - 19th September 2017
West Ham United v Bolton Wanderers: All you need to know
WHUFC.com
West Ham United return to Carabao Cup action on Tuesday evening when the
Hammers take on Bolton Wanderers in the Third Round.
Read on to find out all the information you need to know about this midweek
fixture including team news, ticket information and the Fourth Round draw.
Where and when?
West Ham United v Bolton Wanderers will be played at the London Stadium on
Tuesday 19th September at 19:45 BST.
How to follow:
You can follow the game live via our Matchday Blog on whufc.com, with
updates also available on Twitter throughout the afternoon. You can also
follow the match in different ways on our official Instagram, Facebook and
Snapchat channels!
Tuesday's match has not been selected for television or radio coverage but
highlights of the action will be available on the official West Ham United
channels after the final whistle.
Team news:
Having sustained an injury against West Brom it is unlikely that James
Collins will be available for this fixture.
Updates will be provided on the Welshman's condition, as well as the latest
on Manuel Lanzini, Mark Noble and Edimilson Fernandes, after Slaven Bilic's
press conference on Monday afternoon.
Match officials:
Referee: Simon Hooper
Assistant Referees: Adam Crysell & Akil Howson
Fourth Official: Graham Horwood
Meet the opposition:
Despite being in the Premier League for the majority of this century the
last five years have not been too kind to Bolton Wanderers, with the club
dropping down to the third tier of English football.
Phil Parkinson has returned the Trotters to the Championship at the first
attempt but Bolton have struggled so far on their return to the division,
collecting just two points from their opening eight matches.
The Carabao Cup could however prove a welcome distraction for Bolton's
players and in a one-off game the Trotters may be tricky opposition for the
Hammers.
Player to watch:
Although he started the last two league contests on the bench, Andre Ayew
has made a decent impact in both our win over Huddersfield and draw with
West Brom, including scoring the second goal in last Monday's victory.
The Ghanian international is likely to return to the starting XI for this
Carabao Cup contest, having scored in our last Cup fixture - the win over
Cheltenham Town - and has the opportunity to once again impress.
Should the 27-year-old do so he could earn himself a run in the starting XI
for coming home league matches with Tottenham Hotspur and Swansea City.
Head-to-head
Recent history in this fixture is not in West Ham's favour. The Irons have
not beaten Bolton in any competition since 2007, losing the last eight
fixtures.
The most recent of these came in April 2011 when two goals from loanee
Daniel Sturridge helped Bolton to a 3-0 win over the Hammers.
Slaven Bilic's men will be desperate to end this run of losses on Tuesday.
Last five meetings:
Bolton Wanderers 3-0 West Ham United, Premier League, April 9 2011
West Ham United 1-3 Bolton Wanderers, Premier League, August 21 2010
West Ham United 1-2 Bolton Wanderers, Premier League, March 6 2010
Bolton Wanderers 3-1 West Ham United, Premier League, December 15 2009
Bolton Wanderers 3-1 West Ham United, League Cup, September 22 2009
When is the Fourth Round draw?
Should West Ham beat Bolton then the Irons will be in the Fourth Round draw
of the Carabao Cup.
The Carabao Cup Round Four draw will take place on Wednesday 20 September
and will be broadcast live live on Sky Sports News following the Manchester
United v Burton Albion live contest.
How to get there:
There are four train stations that supporters are recommended to utilise to
reach the London Stadium.
Stratford Station makes use of the Central and Jubilee lines as well as the
DLR, Overground and TfL Rail.
Stratford International also uses the DLR line and National Rail.
Pudding Mill Lane is on the DLR line and is just south of the London Stadium
while Hackney Wick makes use of the London Overground.
Ticket information:
A number of fans are expected to collect tickets for the Bolton Wanderers
fixture on the day. West Ham United would like to advise supporters picking
up tickets that they should do so from the North Ticket Office and should
therefore approach the stadium using Bridge 2.
Supporters making use of the Club London hospitality are advised to approach
the London Stadium using Bridge 3.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
James Collins receives positive news from ankle scan
WHUFC.com
James Collins has been handed a boost with the news that the ankle injury he
suffered in Saturday's 0-0 draw at West Bromwich Albion is not as serious as
originally feared. The Wales international was forced off 13 minutes into
the second half at The Hawthorns, after picking up the knock just before
half-time and attempting to carry on. Collins left the stadium on crutches
but a scan this morning has revealed only a sprain and the 34-year-old is
likely to be back in action within two to three weeks. Head of Medical
Services Gary Lewin said: "It's good news for James in the sense that it is
not long-term or as serious as it perhaps looked at the time. "He is the
type of player who will run through brick walls for you and will be
desperate to get back as quickly as he can, but we will manage him very
carefully and ensure he returns when the time is right."
Lewin also revealed further good news on the injury front, with captain Mark
Noble recovered from a minor knee problem and Edimilson Fernandes and Manuel
Lanzini both making good progress. "Mark has returned to full training and
is available for selection tomorrow," he said. "Edimilson is progressing
well following the ankle sprain he suffered on international duty with
Switzerland, and should resume full training in the next few days. "Manuel
Lanzini is a bit further away but still on schedule in terms of his
rehabilitation from the knee injury that he irritated up at Newcastle last
month. "He is back on the training pitches and working hard, and we are
looking at him being available again after the next international break."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble: I'd love to lead the Hammers to the Carabao Cup final
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble hopes to be fit enough to return to action and lead West Ham
United's charge down the road to Wembley. The Hammers captain was ruled out
of the Premier League fixtures with Huddersfield Town and West Bromwich
Albion with a knee injury, but has returned to training and hopes to play
some part in Tuesday's Carabao Cup fourth round meeting with Bolton
Wanderers at London Stadium. Having reached the semi-finals of the
competition on two previous occasions – in 2011 and 2014 – Noble would love
to go one better and lead his boyhood club out at the Home of Football in
February. "I trained over the weekend and am hoping to be fit enough to play
some part," said the skipper, who has appeared in 17 League Cup ties in
Claret and Blue. "If I do play, I'll certainly be determined to end our
recent record against Bolton. I was told we have lost the last eight games
against them, which is an unbelievable run. "The last time we beat Bolton,
Carlos Tevez scored two and I got one of my favourite goals, a volley, when
we were fighting to escape relegation ten years ago. We need to end that run
tonight! "The manager may choose to change things up a bit but, whoever he
picks, we have the quality in the squad and the motivation to get through to
the fourth round. I've been to the semi-finals of this competition twice and
would love to reach the final."
Noble rightly sees West Ham as favourites to see off the Championship's
bottom club, who have failed to win any of the eight league matches they
have contested this season. But with a manager in charge who has already led
a League Two club to the League Cup final in Phil Parkinson, the No16 is
taking nothing for granted. "Tuesday's tie presents us with an opportunity
to win another home game and to get through to the last 16 of a competition
we believe we can win," he confirmed. "Bolton will not make things easy,
though. They might not have made a great start to the season in the
Championship, but cup matches are a different proposition and they will come
to London Stadium motivated and believing they can pull off an upset. "In
addition, their manager Phil Parkinson has already led a League Two club,
Bradford City, to the final of this tournament, so he will certainly not be
intimidated. So, as is always the case, we will need to be on it from the
kick-off and not give Bolton a chance to settle here, as we did against
Huddersfield Town in the Premier League last week."
*Standard Tickets for Tuesday's Carabao Cup fourth round tie between West
Ham United and Bolton Wanderers are on General Sale now. Secure your seat
here now!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ladies must address 'small margins' after Chichester loss – De Carnys
WHUFC.com
Greg De Carnys has called on his West Ham United Ladies side to become
harder to beat after Sunday's loss to Chichester City. Despite looking the
better team in the opening period the West Ham Ladies fell to an unfortunate
4-0 defeat – a result which didn't completely reflect how the game played
out. Two quick finishes in the second period from a defensive error and a
world-class half-volley had put Chichester ahead before two other goals
later in the half. It continues a poor run of result for De Carnys's side
but the first team manager has hailed the quality showed by his players in
the first half of Sunday's match. And De Carnys has now called on the
ladies to show the quality needed to win these games and become a stronger
team defensively. "It was a tale of two halves," De Carnys told whufc.com:
"The girls showed some real determination in the first half and it was
pleasing to see the way the girls took on board everything we had worked on
in training this week. We competed well and overall, we had the upper hand.
"Then the two early goals in the second half broke our resolve and that was
very disappointing to see. It's small margins at this level and in our last
two league games now we've not had the quality to make it count during our
spells of pressure.
"We've conceded too many goals and we need to make sure we are harder to
beat going forward."
The West Ham Ladies return to action on Wednesday at Rush Green in what is
an important contest against Charlton Athletic. And De Carnys Is already
looking to put right the wrongs he saw in Sunday's loss in the midweek
fixture. He added: "We have another game on Wednesday to put it right but it
will require all the character we have spoken so much about against a very
strong Charlton outfit. I have made it very clear to the girls that this is
a squad game and we will need all the ladies, collectively, to pull together
and put it right."
De Carnys also offered special praise to the developmental team, which
defeated QPR in a stunning 11-0 victory. The first team manager added: "The
development squad had an unbelievable result against QPR winning 11-0 and I
can't ask for more from Myles and those players."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Browne ready to continue comeback against Liverpool
WHUFC.com
Marcus Browne expressed his delighted at returning to action in a West Ham
United shirt and admitted he can't wait to turn out again for the U23s on
Monday.
Browne started in the Hammers' 3-1 defeat to Leicester City in Premier
League 2 last week, playing his first minutes since April after a lengthy
injury lay-off due to a knee problem. The attacker completed 45 minutes for
Terry Westley's men and was a constant threat at the King Power Stadium
before the hosts took control in the second period. And Browne this week has
the opportunity to work on his fitness further as Liverpool – top of
Division 1 after four successive wins – visit Dagenham and Redbridge's
Chigwell Construction Stadium. "Hopefully I can get some more minutes in the
tank against Liverpool to help with the fitness," the 19-year-old said.
"It's a big game for everyone involved as they have started well. "It's a
chance for us to bounce back after the Leicester game and a chance to put
things right and get back to winning ways. "It felt really good to be out
there against Leicester. It's been a long five months. I'm grateful to the
medical department we have at the Club as they've been tough on me, but it's
what I've needed. "I'd have expected nothing less, so yes, I'm very
grateful. "Training has also been good, the boys are training at a good
standard and it's tough but it's just the way we like it."
The Foxes fielded the likes of experienced Robert Huth and summer signing
Kelechi Iheanacho last week, meaning Browne's return was made even more of a
challenge. But the forward, who captained the U23s a number of times last
season before a loan spell at Wigan Athletic, was pleased with the test. "It
was a strong Leicester squad with some highly-rated first team players. But
it was a good test for me and the boys. "Of course it's always hard playing
against a player who is full of experience and has played in the Premier
League week-in, week-out for so many years, and I think their experience
showed. "It made it really hard for us. But these are the challenges we
thrive off and it'll only make us better players. "For now I'm just going to
continue working on and off the pitch with the physio department and the
coaches to rebuild my fitness until I'm at a stage where I'm ready to play a
full 90 minutes."
Tickets are free for Season Ticket Holders for Monday's clash – which
kicks-off at 7pm – against Liverpool at the Chigwell Construction Stadium.
Tickets for non-Season Ticket Holders are priced at £5 for adults and £3 for
children and concessions.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Foundation delivering unique opportunities through PL/BT Disability Fund
WHUFC.com
For Sajid Shafiq, the West Ham United Foundation has given him and his son
unique and life-changing opportunities. He has been taking his son Luka, who
is on the autistic spectrum, to the Foundation's inclusive football sessions
since the PL/BT Disability Fund started in 2016.
Whilst he enjoyed watching Luka, who is a keen young footballer who has
taken to the sessions at the Foundation with impressive enthusiasm, Sajid
was always looking to do more.
So when he learnt that there may be an opportunity to gain his football
coaching badges and develop himself and his son through the Foundation, he
jumped at the chance.
"The inclusive programmes the Foundation run are fantastic, but I was
interested to know how I could help and get more involved" said Sajid.
"Rashid (the Foundation's Employability & Coach Education Manager) has been
a great tutor, and I've learnt so much from the Level 1 course that I can
now take forward to help both my son and other children and young people
within the programme."
For the Foundation, 'inclusive' work and delivery is absolutely vital.
Projects working with SEN youngsters and those with a disability have spread
into more schools than before, with the Foundations own inclusive sessions
engaging with other 500 youngsters and young adults with a disability. All
of this work is done with a view to those participants then being able to
follow a pathway into other sessions, just like any other participant. Many
Disability groups and charities now come to the Foundation to access their
coaches to deliver football or multi-sport sessions, host and run
tournaments, seek advice or even book awareness talks delivered by the head
of inclusion.
"It is important to us at the Foundation that our work is never seen in any
way as a 'tick-box' exercise", said Austin Hughes, Community Sport Manager
at the Foundation. "We have put on great sessions and linked many more
participants, not just specifically to football but physical activity as a
whole, which can bring many health benefits. Our next aim is to start to
spread that awareness and inclusive nature onwards."
The PL/BT Disability Fund was launched as a national programme to be
delivered by 22 clubs in 2016 to create possibilities for disabled people
through sport - helping to remove the barriers that mean, at present,
disabled people are half as likely to participate in sport as non-disabled
people.
During that first season, the West Ham United Foundation played a prominent
role, not only supporting the launch of the programme here at the Stadium
but also delivering some great support and sessions. After a great first
season, how exactly could the Foundation build on what it has already done?
One of the first actions for the new year within the PL/BT Disability Fund
has been to bring the parents and families around the participants closer to
the work – and Sajid has immediately benefited from this shift. Around any
disability, especially those such as Autism of which Sajid's son Luka lives
with, it can be difficult for parents to find that time to link with their
children doing what they enjoy.
"All parents are passionate about their children, so we know exactly what it
can mean to other parents to learn that they can become involved in this
way" said Austin. "That's why we were so keen to be able to offer this
coaching qualification to Sajid."
Sajid has now completed his FA Level 1 coaching badge through the
Foundation, and will not only be able to coach as a volunteer, but also be
able to link directly with his son in doing something that he enjoys. Rather
than standing to the side and just watching, Sajid can now become a very
real part of the sessions his son enjoys. His point of view as a parent will
also further guide and help the Foundation in setting more sessions, as well
as bring reassurance to any parents bringing new youngsters to our sessions.
For Sajid, this is just the beginning. "I'm delighted to have my coaching
badge now, and thank the West Ham United Foundation for all their support
through it. I'm now looking forward to getting out on the grass and
coaching!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Boleyn Ground legacy continues as car park turned into school
playground
ES Sport
West Ham have extended their proud connection with Upton Park after Hammers
legend Sir Trevor Brooking opened new recreational facilities in the shadow
of the former Boleyn Ground. The new sports and play area, built on the
former site of the ground's car park which was gifted to St Edward's
Catholic Primary School in Green Street, was opened by Sir Trevor, Hammers
Under-23s midfielder Noha Sylvestre and Ladies' vice-captain Amber Stobbs.
Speaking at the school, Sir Trevor said: "In the heart of East London, to
get an area the size of this is fantastic and what they've put on it is
amazing really. The only downside is that the kids won't want to go to their
lessons! "The youngsters are going to have a lot of fun, it's all in claret
and blue and that link to the club is very strong. It's important for those
that have been here quite a while to retain that link with the club because
we're now only in striking distance of the old ground and the claret and
blue at the school will make sure that there is a lasting legacy here."
Headteacher at St Edward's, Chris Mabey, praised the West Ham United
Foundation's involvement in the school, saying: "Having the Foundation in
the school really motivates the students and they really look forward to
having the coaches in the school. "After years of wishing that we could have
a playground like this, and when West Ham decided they'd be moving onto the
London Stadium, we didn't imagine anything on this scale. It has really
transformed playtimes, PE and outdoor learning and the pupils' whole school
day."
St Edward's Catholic School, who were previously based on the site of the
former ground, was relocated at West Ham's expense in September 2000 to the
present site in Green Street following the development of a new main stand
at the Boleyn Ground in 2000.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini facing another month off
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 18th September 2017
By: Staff Writer
Manuel Lanzini - who was tipped to return against Tottenham this weekend -
is unlikely to play again until the end of the next international break. The
Argentine midfielder has featured just the once for West Ham since damaging
a knee during the club's pre-season tour of Austria and Germany and,
according to Head Medic Gary Lewin, is unlikely to be seen again until
mid-October at the earliest. "Manuel is still on schedule in terms of his
rehabilitation from the knee injury that he irritated up at Newcastle last
month," Gary Lewin told whufc.com. "He is back on the training pitches and
working hard, and we are looking at him being available again after the next
international break."
The 24-year-old played the entire second half of West Ham's 3-0 defeat at St
James Park on 26 August having replaced Declan Rice at half time, but has
been ruled out since. He is likely to miss the forthcoming Carabao Cup clash
against Bolton (Carabao Cup) and the Premier League matches against
Tottenham (h), Swansea (h) and Burnley (a).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collins back by October
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 18th September 2017
By: Staff Writer
James Collins has been given the good news that he could be back in first
time action as early as the beginning of October. The 33-year-old centre
half collapased in agony midway through the second half of Saturday's
goalless draw against West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns and was
immediately diagnosed with ligament damage to the ankle. However a scan has
revealed that the damge is far less serious than first thought and as a
result, the Welsh international should be back in full training within two
to three weeks. "It's good news for James in the sense that it is not
long-term or as serious as it perhaps looked at the time," said West Ham's
experienced Head Medic Gary Lewin. "He is the type of player who will run
through brick walls for you and will be desperate to get back as quickly as
he can, but we will manage him very carefully and ensure he returns when the
time is right."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic defends Hernandez decision
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 18th September 2017
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic appears determined to continue with Andy Carroll as his central
striker - despite forking out £16million during the summer in order to
purchase Javier Hernandez. The Mexican international cut a forlorn figure as
he trudged off the field at West Brom on Saturday afternoon having been
substituted for the second successive match after once again failing to make
an impact. The manager's insistance on playing Hernandez out of position on
the left of a three-pronged attack has led to much criticism from the fan
base - however Bilic seems determined to continue with his experiment in
order to accomodate Carroll. "Andy is always a threat," Bilic told
whufc.com. "It is very important for him to get the games under his belt. He
looks good now, touch wood. "This was his second game; he looks fit, he
looks competitive and the quality will come through in the games. It's a big
boost for us and hopefully long may it continue. "He looked unhappy [when
substituted] but we have quality players on the bench and we changed the
whole three up front because we had Ayew, Arnautovic and Sakho. I was very
happy with the way they kept the shape, defended and pressed."
Carroll, who was replaced by Diafra Sakho with eight minutes of play
remaining at The Hawthorns enjoyed three of West Ham's nine efforts at goal
during the game. Meanwhile Hernandez, playing to the left of Carroll didn't
take a single shot - and managed to touch the ball just ONCE in Albion's box
during the entire match.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's James Collins set to miss a month after suffering ankle injury in
West Brom draw
KEN DYER
ES Sport
West Ham centre-half James Collins looks set to face at least a month out of
action after injuring an ankle in the goalless draw at West Brom. The Wales
defender was due to have a scan today and there are fears he could have
suffered ligament damage. The 34-year-old has played a significant role in
West Ham's defensive improvement after they conceded 10 goals in their first
three Premier League matches and his absence will be a major blow for
manager Slaven Bilic. For the matches against Huddersfield and West Brom,
the Hammers boss changed to a back-three, including the vastly-experienced
Collins, and his team kept clean sheets in both games. Collins picked up the
injury in the first half but carried on before having to be replaced after
half-time. Bilic was today hoping that the injury is not too serious, but
Collins is certain to miss next Saturday's home match against Tottenham and
the match against Swansea seven days later. Bilic has options, with Angelo
Ogbonna, who looks certain to play against Bolton in tomorrow's Carabao Cup
tie, coming in or moving Pablo Zabaleta into a back-three. Zabaleta is
highly likely to be rested for tomorrow's match against Bolton. The
Argentine has been booked four times this season and needs just one more
yellow card before being given a one-match ban. Bilic is sure to make other
changes, too, with Andy Carroll and Javier Hernandez likely to be rested.
Captain Mark Noble is fit again after injury and should come in, along with
full-backs Arthur Masuaku and Sam Byram. Marko Arnautovic, who came on as a
second-half substitute at West Brom after serving a three-match ban, will be
given more game time, while Diafra Sakho is also expected to start.
Meanwhile, Bilic has answered criticism that he is playing Hernandez out of
position. The Mexico striker has been deployed in a wide left role in the
last two matches but Bilic said: "He was not wide-wide, but more off the
striker."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'It is almost impossible' Slaven Bilic admits he is struggling to fit West
Ham duo Javier Hernandez and Andy Carroll into their positions
JACK ROSSER
ES Sport
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says it is 'almost impossible' to fit both
Andy Carroll and Javier Hernandez up front together. Since the return of
Carroll to the starting eleven, the former Manchester United striker, who
joined the Hammers from Bayer Leverkusen over the summer, has been deployed
out on the left-wing to little effect. Against both Huddersfield and West
Brom the Mexican international struggled to get into the areas in and around
the penalty area where he has been so successful in the Premier League,
although he did strike the crossbar against the Terriers. "It is possible,"
Bilic said when asked about playing the pair up front together. "I am
thinking about them the most but it is hard to have them both in their
natural positions. "It is hard to do that and then have three at the back,
then with Antonio and Arnautovic, it is almost impossible."
The Croatian also revealed that, in an attempt to manage his fitness,
Carroll will play no part in their League Cup Third Round tie with Bolton
Wanderers on Tuesday night. "We have to manage him," he added. "He looks
good and fit, hopefully he will last for ages now without an injury, touch
wood. "He isn't going to play tomorrow."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fans urge Bilic to give Sead Haksabanovic his first start against
Bolton
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham United take on Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday
night. West Ham United are in Carabao Cup action on Tuesday night, as they
take on League One side Bolton Wanderers at the London Stadium. The Hammers
beat Cheltenham Town in the last round of the competition to set up a Third
Round clash with Bolton, as Slaven Bilic looks to pick up a victory. After
beating Huddersfield Town 2-0 last Monday night for their first league win
of the season, West Ham picked up a point with a 0-0 draw at West Brom on
Saturday. Tuesday's clash with Bolton gives Bilic a chance to rotate his
side, with summer signing Sead Haksabanovic possibly hoping to make his
first start for the club. Haksabanovic, 18, joined West Ham from Swedish
side Halmstads after hitting 13 goals in 70 games, and the Hammers now hope
that he can develop into a first-team star. The midfielder, who already has
one cap for Montenegro to his name, hasn't featured for the West Ham first
team yet, and fans believe that facing Bolton gives Bilic the ideal chance
to play him. Fans took to Twitter to name their ideal line-ups for the game
against Bolton, and many included Haksabanovic in their side, believing this
is the perfect opportunity to see him in action. Others have noticed that
Haksabanovic wasn't in the West Ham Under-23 side against Liverpool this
evening, suggesting that he could be in the squad for Tuesday night – and
fans are begging to see him in action alongside fellow youngster Nathan
Holland.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic transcript: Every word from the West Ham boss on Carroll & Hernandez,
stability & Bolton clash
Miss anything from the press conference? We've got you covered
Football london
COMMENTS
BYSAM INKERSOLE
15:22, 18 SEP 2017
How happy were you with the point at West Brom?
Look, we wanted to win the game of course but a point away is never a bad
point if we look at the big picture. If we look at the week, our priorities
to solve after Newcastle game - we conceded ten goals, we needed our
priority being getting stability back. Since then we have been working on
that, we got four points, two clean sheets, changed the system a little bit
and that worked for us really well. So we have the stability back, we
stopped that fall, you know? To be fair, we stopped the opponent by in two
games creating maybe one chance. It's a lot to build on, we can feel it
during, after the games, training, now is the time to get the second part of
being very dangerous and creating chances. So, that game was not a beautiful
game but very few are up there. Not just down to them but also on us, the
priority was to be compact, solid and stop them from counter attacking or
being dangerous in their patterns and not to be like last year were we were
4-0 down in an hour. We are not overwhelmed with our performance, we have to
add to that, add more creation and chances, that will come with confidence,
maintaining this pattern with points and also with some players to come
bacj. We are missing that kind of player creating things, for that I mean
mostly Manuel Lanzini.
How much of a blow to lose James Collins?
It looked worse, could have been a few months but it's only going to be a
few weeks. He done the scan, it is not ideal of course, but I expected worse
to be fair.
The Foster incident? The red card? No. I saw before a lot of those, when you
play at home the referee gives the red card but this was a fair decision
from the referee. He wasn't the last man and it was just mis-timed, not
brutal.
All points with Andy Carroll - how good is it to have him back?
Two things have hapened. We changed system then at the same time, he has
been available for us. Of course we have to manage him, he looks good, fit
and is training, hopefully he will last because that was his problem for
ages. He isn't going to play tomorrow for example, we have to try to manage
him. We tried that last year, two years ago too to be fair but it didn't
help. We are doing it a bit differently this season, maybe he was available
for Newcastle but knowing he had the break, gave us two more week,s we said
no, let him train. Definitely we will never say never of course but we will
never rush him or let him, when he just comes back, avoid him playing three
games a week for 90 minutes.
What is the chance of Javier Hernandez and Andy Carroll forming a number
9/10 partnership?
It is very hard to please everyone. It is possible of course, I think about
that the most but it is hard to put them in their ideal positions. It looks
really good on paper and is easy to do that but then it is hard to have
three at the back, plus Antonio, Arnautovic and Ayew, it is almost
impossible. It is nice to have the options but you want them all on the
pitch at the same time so of course I am thinking about that. OK, Chicharito
is not playing in an ideal position but I spoke to him, he is a great lad
and we have priorities and we need you there. He is doing the job, that was
a priority now we have to keep the stability, we can't lose it. Then we will
put the team out equally as good in possession which we are going to do but
we are still waiting for Lanzini to come back and give us creativity. It
will give the players in front of him with better service him with better
service.
What do you want to get out of the game tomorrow?
It is a big game for us. That's all we think about. We are very ambitious in
the club, all of the club. If you have a look at the round before, teams
were strong out there. There are some changes tomorrow but thats because we
want to give them a chance to play. But we are ambitious, we are playing at
home against Bolton and there will be some changes but it will be players
who played Premier League this season and last. As I said, we want to
progress because you never know in a cup, with a bit of luck, you are there.
Managing Andy, what do you mean by that?
We didn't rush him. Every day he is involved in something. His history tells
us he needs to be managed in an individual way but you can have too any of
the, this is not tennis. He is great in the group and we are doing that. So
far, he looks really good you know, we are going to try to use every
opportunity to keep him fit, long term.
Attacking players, a surprise scoring is a problem?
You have those kind of options in every club. I am not talking about the
big, big clubs but others. OK, we play West Brom, they had players like a
good line up, Phillips, Rodriguez, Brunt etc. Rondon was on the bench, Burke
was not there, Chadli was not there, you need the squad. The goals have been
a problem OK, we didn't score a lot, four in total. OK, we got some chances
against Huddersfield, the only games we didn't create was Newcastle and then
this last game against West Brom very much. To be fair, you have to give
them a lot of credit because not any teams do there or against them. It's
hard to create clear cut chances against them. I am also praising two clean
sheets. It's not just down to the keeper, defence and two defensive
midfielders, everyone is doing their job and helping them alot. I am
expecting better service a little bit, we are not creating enough if we talk
about Saturday. It's not down to three up front that they didn't move or
have a bad day in the office, they need good service. Especially against
teams who defend so deep like West Brom for only three of them it was
difficult to create anything, they need better servuce.
An article said you haven't turned the corner just yet but can see the
corner now, fair?
There is no time in football. I am the first one who would like to do it
sort it on one session. Thats a good line you know. We know what we want, we
lost three games, he crisis started too early but it was there anyway. It's
happened, thats modern football I accept it but I have to stop it. How do we
do it, lets do it step by step. Its very important, lets get that thing
back, stability, stubbornness and also play football. Did we get it, yes, we
got it good. We see the players are glad now, the back three especially and
the two holding midfielders, yes we are. We could have scored more against
Huddersfield but we have to go to the next step now without losing this one.
It has to stay and we have to fins the solutions, on paper, on the pitch, to
be as dangerous upront but without losing the stability Is it possible, yes
it is but we can't lose what we have now because we have worked so hard for
it.
Will you put out a strong side tomorrow?
Strong side but there will be some changes. Not because we are not
ambitious, we are dreaming about the cup, with a bit of luck and good
performances, you need three of them, don't need 35 of them. We can get
there. We are looking towards that competition but come on, with a good draw
we have with respect to Bolton, but considering lasts season we had Chelsea,
Man United or City this is a good draw, a home game but it's going to be
tough. Not only are they on the list of professionals they have already
played for us, have earned their chance and sooner or later they will get a
shot in the Premier League. I told them that, it's a good opportunity. If we
are looking for improvement a few of the paces are quite open and it is up
to them to impress me, the staff and the fans on the pitch.
What do want out of the game?
Well, obviously the best would be an easy win win and then maybe to rest
some players but again, we are playing against a Championship side who did
not have a good start of course, but we are playing them, it's never easy,
it's always hard and difficult, a tough game but we are looking to win of
course, without getting injuries and fatigue if possible but it isn't going
to be easy. We have to be on top of our game, if we drop five per cent of
anything because then, somehow your team performance energy and quality
drops 85 per cent instead.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE - Robert Snodgrass doesn't know if he has West Ham future and
praises John Terry's influence at Aston Villa
TalkSport
By Billy Hawkins - @bhawkinsss
Monday, September 18, 2017
Robert Snodgrass has responded to questions regarding his future as a West
Ham player, admitting he cannot say if he will play for the east London club
again.
Snodgrass, the Scotland winger, signed for Slaven Bilic's Hammers in January
for a £10.2m fee, leaving Hull after a superb opening half of their doomed
Premier League campaign.
He played 15 games for West Ham during the rest of the 2016/17 season, but
Bilic did not see the 30-year-old as part of his plans for the current term
and agreed to loan him out to Championship side Aston Villa for the duration
of the season.
Snodgrass has played three games since his arrival in the Midlands, and he
spoke to talkSPORT on Monday to discuss his time at the club so far –
answering the big question about his future as a West Ham player.
Asked by Jim White if he will ever play for the Hammers again, Snodgrass
replied: "It's very difficult to say, because you just don't know in
football where you're going to be or what the next chapter is.
"But I made the decision for the next chapter now to be at Aston Villa, and
my full heart and determination is to try and get the club back where it
belongs."
Snodgrass was one of seven arrivals at Villa Park over the summer, as Steve
Bruce built a team with a view to promotion back to the Premier League. Sam
Johnstone and Josh Onomah were, like the Scot, loan signings, while Ahmed
Elmohamady, Christopher Samba and Glenn Whelan came in on permanent deals.
However, none of those arrivals had the same impact as the signing of John
Terry on a free transfer after his Chelsea contract expired. Capturing the
Stamford Bridge legend was seen as a real coup for Villa seeing as he
fielded offers from the Premier League and across the globe, and he has
started all eight of Villa's league games having been named captain prior to
the start of the season.
Snodgrass has been impressed by Terry's impact since arriving at the club,
claiming the former England skipper has been working to change the mood
around Villa Park 'like the leader he is'.
"John's been great," Snodgrass added. "It's sort of different for John,
where he's been at Chelsea for years and it's a new sort of set up for him.
"He's come in and had to meet new lads, and slowly but surely implement his
character on the changing room. It's not been shouting to the rooftops… it's
just been quietly going about like the leader he is, trying to change little
things here and there. Because it is different when you move clubs.
"He's had to go in, and I think he's been asked by the manager to try and
get things and standards and lifting everybody. And he's doing that well,
but it takes time sometimes."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manuel Lanzini set to provide West Ham with massive injury boost ahead of
Bolton clash - report
He's been missed so far this season
Football London
BYADAM JONES
07:00, 18 SEP 2017
Manuel Lanzini could be set to provide West Ham with a major fitness boost
going in to this week's fixture against Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup.
The playmaker has missed the majority of the campaign for the Hammers so far
in 2017/18 - with his only appearance coming in the 3-0 defeat to Newcastle
United last month. His influence has been sorely missed by Slaven Bilic's
side for most of this season too after being influential for West Ham last
campaign with eight goals in 39 games in all competitions. Now, according to
Claret&Hugh, Lanzini could be about to give the Hammers a welcome boost and
could be involved against Bolton this week. The Argentine international is
now back in training with the club, but will be lacking match fitness.
However, the report suggests that Slaven Bilic may well be willing to give
Lanzini some much need game-time as he continues his recovery from injury.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham forward Javier Hernandez a little lost on the wing as Slaven Bilic
looks to find best attacking solution
Javier Hernandez may have to get used to playing on the wing for West Ham
Slaven Bilic was under pressure following three defeats before Huddersfield
win
Bilic knows scrutiny will return with more blunt showings like at the
Hawthorns
Grzegorz Krychowiak was the star performer for West Brom during stalemate
By Laurie Whitwell for the Daily Mail
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 17 September 2017 | UPDATED: 00:33, 18 September 2017
Javier Hernandez may have been brought to West Ham as a penalty-box poacher
but since the return of Andy Carroll a different task has been asked of him.
Out of the 18-yard area and on to the wing, Hernandez has been spotted
tracking back, dropping deep and cutting in, and Slaven Bilic says it is a
role the Mexican may have to get used to. Bilic is still juggling how best
to fit West Ham's attacking array together and the 0-0 draw at West Bromwich
Albion showed the current system needs refining. Bilic's side had only one
shot on target – an effort from range by Michael Antonio – and Hernandez,
the £16million summer signing, had scant opportunity to illustrate the kind
of predatory instinct that was in evidence during his brace at Southampton
earlier this season. On reflection a point at the Hawthorns was further
solace to Bilic after the win over Huddersfield, yet the Croatian knows the
scrutiny that fell on his position during three straight defeats will return
if West Ham continue as bluntly in attack. Thwarted by a team as defensively
drilled as West Brom, Bilic looked for the positives. 'We are getting that
confidence back as a team,' he said. 'We were attacking. But to get three
points you need quality up front, which we didn't have. The strikers were
fighting and were part of the team but we could do more. 'We played with
three strikers. There were a lot of positives by pressing them, keeping the
ball, but if we are talking about shots on target there wasn't much of that.
SUPER STAT
Gareth Barry equalled Ryan Giggs' Premier League record of 632 appearances
and also became the first player to start 600 Premier League games.
'Hernandez was not wide-wide, we are playing with three or five at the back
so he is more off the striker. Of course in defensive work they were coming
deep, which is why I am praising them.' Tony Pulis was satisfied by securing
a clean sheet. Grzegorz Krychowiak's classy display in midfield, while not
fully fit, hinted at the promise he possesses for this season. 'He still
feels that he is not sharp and as strong as he would like to be,' said
Pulis. 'He is going to be a really good player for us.'
Jake Livermore missed out due to mental fatigue after two games for England
and he will also be absent for the League Cup tie against Manchester City.
'Physically he is fine. But mentally he just feels a bit tired,' Pulis
added. 'Playing all the time has really taken it out of the boy. And he is
such a good player for us that we don't want to risk him going into a deeper
hole.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham star Jose Fonte insists Hammers are growing in confidence after
West Brom draw
JOSE FONTE is convinced West Ham are up off the canvas and ready to start
packing a punch.
PUBLISHED: 00:02, Mon, Sep 18, 2017 | UPDATED: 00:15, Mon, Sep 18, 2017
Express.co.uk
Jose Fonte thinks West Ham have turned the corner on their season Victory
over Huddersfield on Monday and this hard-fought draw adds up to a tasty
four points in a week. "We have most definitely got some momentum now and
the results will come," said Hammers defender Fonte. "The confidence is
coming. We've had two good results. Now we have to grab on to that, keep
winning and climb the table. "Unfortunately we didn't start the season well
but four points from two games – we have to take that. We're not in the
position that we want to be but it's only five games. And we're taking the
right steps." Four of their next six games are at home and suddenly things
are looking a whole lot brighter for West Ham boss Slaven Bilic.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jose Fonte finally looks to be justifying his place at West Ham United
HITC
Shane Callaghan
Jose Fonte continues to impress for West Ham United. In May, the consensus
among many West Ham United fans was that manager Slaven Bilic had wasted
close to £20 million in the previous January. Robert Snodgrass, signed for
£10 million, looked a pale imitation of Dimitri Payet, while £8 million
addition Jose Fonte did not look the same, commanding centre-back as he did
at Southampton. Fast forward four months and although Snodgrass is on loan
at Aston Villa, rubber-stamping his status as a waste of money, Fonte is now
proving good value for his. The Portugal defender has been a rare positive
in an otherwise shocking season for West Ham, who have won only one of their
first five Premier League games. Deployed in a three-man defence, the
33-year-old, who turns 34 in December, looks far more comfortable than he
had done for large spells in a West Ham shirt last season. He impressed
again in Saturday's 0-0 draw at West Bromwich Albion - a good result if only
for the fact it wasn't another away defeat - and Bilic will surely keep that
formation going forward. The under-fire manager could and should tinker with
some of his options in that system, namely not playing Javier Hernandez out
wide, but it's clear to see the defence is enjoying it.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham not turned the corner yet, but Slaven Bilic reckons they can see it
from here
It's now four points from six after West Brom stalemate for a side that
started Prem season with three straight losses
The Mirror
COMMENTS
BYJAMES NURSEY
22:30, 17 SEP 2017UPDATED22:57, 17 SEP 2017
Slaven Bilic has halted West Ham's slide but admits their season still hangs
in the balance. The Hammers boss was the hot favourite for the sack, along
with Crystal Palace's Frank de Boer, as both clubs made poor starts to the
Premier League season. But while De Boer was axed by the Eagles after
opening his reign with four top-flight defeats in a row, Bilic, who is in
the final year of his contract, survived taking no points from the first
nine available. The Croat stopped the rot with a 2-0 victory at home to
promoted Huddersfield last Monday and his men followed that up with a
determined display on the weekend to earn a point at West Brom with a
goalless draw. They did not do enough to win the game — each side had just
one shot on target — but after a second clean sheet in a week, Bilic expects
his 17th-placed Hammers to soon be climbing up the table. He said: "We
can't say we've turned the season around. It's too early to say this. But we
get the confidence back and get the pattern back. We definitely have
something to be positive about. "To have two clean sheets is very important
for the whole team. Hopefully, we are going to do better in the last third
of the pitch."
West Ham's Pedro Obiang provided a rare moment of quality, spotting Ben
Foster off his line and hitting the bar with a shot from just outside the
centre circle.
After the break, Foster was arguably lucky to escape with only a booking as
he raced from the box and took out the on-rushing Javier Hernandez The match
was most notable for former England midfielder Gareth Barry's 632nd Premier
League appearance , equalling the record set by Ryan Giggs. Hammers
defender Jose Fonte said: "Unfortunately, we didn't start the season well
but four points from two games – we have to take that. "We're not in the
position we want to be but it's only five games. We're working to take the
right steps. We have some momentum now and the results will come. We've had
two good results. Now we must grab that and keep winning and if we can go
on a run, we will climb the table."
The Irons, who started Andy Carroll alongside Hernandez and Michail
Antonio, have enough firepower. They also brought on £24million new boy
Marko Arnautovic, Andre Ayew and Diafra Sakho in off the bench.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LEAGUE CUP MEMORIES OF 1972
By Tony Hanna 17 Sep 2017 at 17:52
WTID
I wrote last week that I really feel for the younger generation of West Ham
fans that have seen us win – nothing. I guess the Play Off final of 2012
somewhat duplicates the emotions of a big Cup Final win but it would be nice
if we could win some proper silverware again. Perhaps Tuesdays game against
Bolton will be the second stepping stone to something special this season?
However, today I look back at the 1972 League Cup and the amazing run it
took us all on. It was a ride filled with all manner of footballing emotions
from exhilarating to despair and everything in between. Amazing to think
these events occurred over 45 years ago!
West Ham's League Cup run started with a draw at home to Cardiff before
winning the replay 2-1 in Wales. Never like to do things the easy way do we?
Next up was Don Revie's mighty Leeds. Again a draw at home followed by a
totally unexpected 1-0 win in the replay at Elland Road after extra time!
What did I say about the easy way? Two games down and both had gone to
replays with one going to extra time. Just to ensure things did not get
easier our next game was to be against Liverpool at home. More than 40,000
packed Upton Park that night as Pop Robson scored a late winner in a 2-1
victory. So to the quarter final and Pop scored a hat trick in a 5-0 win
against Sheffield United. These two games had been the typical vintage type
Hammers games under the lights. Cracking atmospheres and proper football
played in the cool mist of an East End autumns night. As the steam rose off
of the players the chants and singing from both North and South banks was
relentless. But more was to come. What was promised was a two legged home
and away semi- final against Stoke City, but what was delivered was quite
extraordinary.
The first leg was at Stoke and we came home with a 2-1 win and the Hammers
were just 90 minutes away from Wembley. The second leg at Upton Park saw
Stoke take the lead in the 73rd minute after a Tommy Taylor and John
McDowell mix up. In the final minutes there came a memory I have never
forgotten. I was right behind the North Bank goal to witness Harry Redknapp
brought down in the box and Geoff Hurst stepped up to take the penalty that
would have sent us to Wembley. Hurst was a brilliant penalty taker in his
day. He always put the ball in the same spot but the power he hit the ball
made it almost impossible for a goal keeper to stop. Well, history tells
that Gordon Banks was to save Geoff's spot kick and take us to extra time
yet again. We huffed and we puffed that final 30 minutes but to no avail. So
a third game was necessary and that was played at Hillsborough where the
kick off was to be delayed by traffic congestion. Yet again it went to extra
time but with no score it was to go to a fourth match to finally decide our
fate. Ron Greenwood had lost the toss after the match for choice of venue
and then found out that the team coach had been sabotaged. During the game
someone had taken the petrol cap off and filled the tank with sand!
So on to the 26th January, nearly two months after the two teams first met,
we trudged off to Old Trafford on the wettest and windiest night you could
imagine. The stadium was under renovation at the time and Hammers fans that
were there that night would remember there was no shelter for us against the
elements. The match was packed with incident, starting with Stokes Terry
Conroy kicking our keeper Bobby Ferguson "accidentally" in the head.
Ferguson had to go off and Bobby Moore volunteered to go in goal. There was
not the luxury of three subs back in those days and Ron Greenwood was hoping
Ferguson would come good with a small spell off the pitch before considering
our only substitute, Peter Eustace. Within minutes Stoke had a penalty and
incredibly Bobby Moore saved Mike Bernard's shot only for the rebound to be
drilled back for the opening goal. Still playing with ten men and with Moore
in goal, Billy Bonds fired us level and back in with a chance. A sublime
Trevor Brooking volley put us 2-1 ahead before Dobing made it 2-2. Ferguson
was to return in the second half but Stoke were to try and take every
opportunity to exploit Ferguson's now dodgy vision and Conroy struck the
winner as we continually back pedalled to try and provide extra cover for
him.
It was finally all over! That Cup run saw us play ten games with three going
to extra time and the four matches against Stoke saw 420 minutes played in
front of a total attendance exceeding 170,000. In days of muddy pitches and
no penalty shoot outs, this tie will never be forgotten by fans who
witnessed the incredible marathon. Stoke went on to beat Chelsea 2-1 in the
final. It is their only major trophy in the clubs history. They were to go
on to finish 17th in the "old" first division that season whilst we finished
14th. Two of the teams we beat on our run, Leeds and Liverpool came 2nd and
3rd to Champions Derby County in a season where just one point separated the
top four.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United return to Carabao Cup action on Tuesday evening when the
Hammers take on Bolton Wanderers in the Third Round.
Read on to find out all the information you need to know about this midweek
fixture including team news, ticket information and the Fourth Round draw.
Where and when?
West Ham United v Bolton Wanderers will be played at the London Stadium on
Tuesday 19th September at 19:45 BST.
How to follow:
You can follow the game live via our Matchday Blog on whufc.com, with
updates also available on Twitter throughout the afternoon. You can also
follow the match in different ways on our official Instagram, Facebook and
Snapchat channels!
Tuesday's match has not been selected for television or radio coverage but
highlights of the action will be available on the official West Ham United
channels after the final whistle.
Team news:
Having sustained an injury against West Brom it is unlikely that James
Collins will be available for this fixture.
Updates will be provided on the Welshman's condition, as well as the latest
on Manuel Lanzini, Mark Noble and Edimilson Fernandes, after Slaven Bilic's
press conference on Monday afternoon.
Match officials:
Referee: Simon Hooper
Assistant Referees: Adam Crysell & Akil Howson
Fourth Official: Graham Horwood
Meet the opposition:
Despite being in the Premier League for the majority of this century the
last five years have not been too kind to Bolton Wanderers, with the club
dropping down to the third tier of English football.
Phil Parkinson has returned the Trotters to the Championship at the first
attempt but Bolton have struggled so far on their return to the division,
collecting just two points from their opening eight matches.
The Carabao Cup could however prove a welcome distraction for Bolton's
players and in a one-off game the Trotters may be tricky opposition for the
Hammers.
Player to watch:
Although he started the last two league contests on the bench, Andre Ayew
has made a decent impact in both our win over Huddersfield and draw with
West Brom, including scoring the second goal in last Monday's victory.
The Ghanian international is likely to return to the starting XI for this
Carabao Cup contest, having scored in our last Cup fixture - the win over
Cheltenham Town - and has the opportunity to once again impress.
Should the 27-year-old do so he could earn himself a run in the starting XI
for coming home league matches with Tottenham Hotspur and Swansea City.
Head-to-head
Recent history in this fixture is not in West Ham's favour. The Irons have
not beaten Bolton in any competition since 2007, losing the last eight
fixtures.
The most recent of these came in April 2011 when two goals from loanee
Daniel Sturridge helped Bolton to a 3-0 win over the Hammers.
Slaven Bilic's men will be desperate to end this run of losses on Tuesday.
Last five meetings:
Bolton Wanderers 3-0 West Ham United, Premier League, April 9 2011
West Ham United 1-3 Bolton Wanderers, Premier League, August 21 2010
West Ham United 1-2 Bolton Wanderers, Premier League, March 6 2010
Bolton Wanderers 3-1 West Ham United, Premier League, December 15 2009
Bolton Wanderers 3-1 West Ham United, League Cup, September 22 2009
When is the Fourth Round draw?
Should West Ham beat Bolton then the Irons will be in the Fourth Round draw
of the Carabao Cup.
The Carabao Cup Round Four draw will take place on Wednesday 20 September
and will be broadcast live live on Sky Sports News following the Manchester
United v Burton Albion live contest.
How to get there:
There are four train stations that supporters are recommended to utilise to
reach the London Stadium.
Stratford Station makes use of the Central and Jubilee lines as well as the
DLR, Overground and TfL Rail.
Stratford International also uses the DLR line and National Rail.
Pudding Mill Lane is on the DLR line and is just south of the London Stadium
while Hackney Wick makes use of the London Overground.
Ticket information:
A number of fans are expected to collect tickets for the Bolton Wanderers
fixture on the day. West Ham United would like to advise supporters picking
up tickets that they should do so from the North Ticket Office and should
therefore approach the stadium using Bridge 2.
Supporters making use of the Club London hospitality are advised to approach
the London Stadium using Bridge 3.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
James Collins receives positive news from ankle scan
WHUFC.com
James Collins has been handed a boost with the news that the ankle injury he
suffered in Saturday's 0-0 draw at West Bromwich Albion is not as serious as
originally feared. The Wales international was forced off 13 minutes into
the second half at The Hawthorns, after picking up the knock just before
half-time and attempting to carry on. Collins left the stadium on crutches
but a scan this morning has revealed only a sprain and the 34-year-old is
likely to be back in action within two to three weeks. Head of Medical
Services Gary Lewin said: "It's good news for James in the sense that it is
not long-term or as serious as it perhaps looked at the time. "He is the
type of player who will run through brick walls for you and will be
desperate to get back as quickly as he can, but we will manage him very
carefully and ensure he returns when the time is right."
Lewin also revealed further good news on the injury front, with captain Mark
Noble recovered from a minor knee problem and Edimilson Fernandes and Manuel
Lanzini both making good progress. "Mark has returned to full training and
is available for selection tomorrow," he said. "Edimilson is progressing
well following the ankle sprain he suffered on international duty with
Switzerland, and should resume full training in the next few days. "Manuel
Lanzini is a bit further away but still on schedule in terms of his
rehabilitation from the knee injury that he irritated up at Newcastle last
month. "He is back on the training pitches and working hard, and we are
looking at him being available again after the next international break."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble: I'd love to lead the Hammers to the Carabao Cup final
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble hopes to be fit enough to return to action and lead West Ham
United's charge down the road to Wembley. The Hammers captain was ruled out
of the Premier League fixtures with Huddersfield Town and West Bromwich
Albion with a knee injury, but has returned to training and hopes to play
some part in Tuesday's Carabao Cup fourth round meeting with Bolton
Wanderers at London Stadium. Having reached the semi-finals of the
competition on two previous occasions – in 2011 and 2014 – Noble would love
to go one better and lead his boyhood club out at the Home of Football in
February. "I trained over the weekend and am hoping to be fit enough to play
some part," said the skipper, who has appeared in 17 League Cup ties in
Claret and Blue. "If I do play, I'll certainly be determined to end our
recent record against Bolton. I was told we have lost the last eight games
against them, which is an unbelievable run. "The last time we beat Bolton,
Carlos Tevez scored two and I got one of my favourite goals, a volley, when
we were fighting to escape relegation ten years ago. We need to end that run
tonight! "The manager may choose to change things up a bit but, whoever he
picks, we have the quality in the squad and the motivation to get through to
the fourth round. I've been to the semi-finals of this competition twice and
would love to reach the final."
Noble rightly sees West Ham as favourites to see off the Championship's
bottom club, who have failed to win any of the eight league matches they
have contested this season. But with a manager in charge who has already led
a League Two club to the League Cup final in Phil Parkinson, the No16 is
taking nothing for granted. "Tuesday's tie presents us with an opportunity
to win another home game and to get through to the last 16 of a competition
we believe we can win," he confirmed. "Bolton will not make things easy,
though. They might not have made a great start to the season in the
Championship, but cup matches are a different proposition and they will come
to London Stadium motivated and believing they can pull off an upset. "In
addition, their manager Phil Parkinson has already led a League Two club,
Bradford City, to the final of this tournament, so he will certainly not be
intimidated. So, as is always the case, we will need to be on it from the
kick-off and not give Bolton a chance to settle here, as we did against
Huddersfield Town in the Premier League last week."
*Standard Tickets for Tuesday's Carabao Cup fourth round tie between West
Ham United and Bolton Wanderers are on General Sale now. Secure your seat
here now!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ladies must address 'small margins' after Chichester loss – De Carnys
WHUFC.com
Greg De Carnys has called on his West Ham United Ladies side to become
harder to beat after Sunday's loss to Chichester City. Despite looking the
better team in the opening period the West Ham Ladies fell to an unfortunate
4-0 defeat – a result which didn't completely reflect how the game played
out. Two quick finishes in the second period from a defensive error and a
world-class half-volley had put Chichester ahead before two other goals
later in the half. It continues a poor run of result for De Carnys's side
but the first team manager has hailed the quality showed by his players in
the first half of Sunday's match. And De Carnys has now called on the
ladies to show the quality needed to win these games and become a stronger
team defensively. "It was a tale of two halves," De Carnys told whufc.com:
"The girls showed some real determination in the first half and it was
pleasing to see the way the girls took on board everything we had worked on
in training this week. We competed well and overall, we had the upper hand.
"Then the two early goals in the second half broke our resolve and that was
very disappointing to see. It's small margins at this level and in our last
two league games now we've not had the quality to make it count during our
spells of pressure.
"We've conceded too many goals and we need to make sure we are harder to
beat going forward."
The West Ham Ladies return to action on Wednesday at Rush Green in what is
an important contest against Charlton Athletic. And De Carnys Is already
looking to put right the wrongs he saw in Sunday's loss in the midweek
fixture. He added: "We have another game on Wednesday to put it right but it
will require all the character we have spoken so much about against a very
strong Charlton outfit. I have made it very clear to the girls that this is
a squad game and we will need all the ladies, collectively, to pull together
and put it right."
De Carnys also offered special praise to the developmental team, which
defeated QPR in a stunning 11-0 victory. The first team manager added: "The
development squad had an unbelievable result against QPR winning 11-0 and I
can't ask for more from Myles and those players."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Browne ready to continue comeback against Liverpool
WHUFC.com
Marcus Browne expressed his delighted at returning to action in a West Ham
United shirt and admitted he can't wait to turn out again for the U23s on
Monday.
Browne started in the Hammers' 3-1 defeat to Leicester City in Premier
League 2 last week, playing his first minutes since April after a lengthy
injury lay-off due to a knee problem. The attacker completed 45 minutes for
Terry Westley's men and was a constant threat at the King Power Stadium
before the hosts took control in the second period. And Browne this week has
the opportunity to work on his fitness further as Liverpool – top of
Division 1 after four successive wins – visit Dagenham and Redbridge's
Chigwell Construction Stadium. "Hopefully I can get some more minutes in the
tank against Liverpool to help with the fitness," the 19-year-old said.
"It's a big game for everyone involved as they have started well. "It's a
chance for us to bounce back after the Leicester game and a chance to put
things right and get back to winning ways. "It felt really good to be out
there against Leicester. It's been a long five months. I'm grateful to the
medical department we have at the Club as they've been tough on me, but it's
what I've needed. "I'd have expected nothing less, so yes, I'm very
grateful. "Training has also been good, the boys are training at a good
standard and it's tough but it's just the way we like it."
The Foxes fielded the likes of experienced Robert Huth and summer signing
Kelechi Iheanacho last week, meaning Browne's return was made even more of a
challenge. But the forward, who captained the U23s a number of times last
season before a loan spell at Wigan Athletic, was pleased with the test. "It
was a strong Leicester squad with some highly-rated first team players. But
it was a good test for me and the boys. "Of course it's always hard playing
against a player who is full of experience and has played in the Premier
League week-in, week-out for so many years, and I think their experience
showed. "It made it really hard for us. But these are the challenges we
thrive off and it'll only make us better players. "For now I'm just going to
continue working on and off the pitch with the physio department and the
coaches to rebuild my fitness until I'm at a stage where I'm ready to play a
full 90 minutes."
Tickets are free for Season Ticket Holders for Monday's clash – which
kicks-off at 7pm – against Liverpool at the Chigwell Construction Stadium.
Tickets for non-Season Ticket Holders are priced at £5 for adults and £3 for
children and concessions.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Foundation delivering unique opportunities through PL/BT Disability Fund
WHUFC.com
For Sajid Shafiq, the West Ham United Foundation has given him and his son
unique and life-changing opportunities. He has been taking his son Luka, who
is on the autistic spectrum, to the Foundation's inclusive football sessions
since the PL/BT Disability Fund started in 2016.
Whilst he enjoyed watching Luka, who is a keen young footballer who has
taken to the sessions at the Foundation with impressive enthusiasm, Sajid
was always looking to do more.
So when he learnt that there may be an opportunity to gain his football
coaching badges and develop himself and his son through the Foundation, he
jumped at the chance.
"The inclusive programmes the Foundation run are fantastic, but I was
interested to know how I could help and get more involved" said Sajid.
"Rashid (the Foundation's Employability & Coach Education Manager) has been
a great tutor, and I've learnt so much from the Level 1 course that I can
now take forward to help both my son and other children and young people
within the programme."
For the Foundation, 'inclusive' work and delivery is absolutely vital.
Projects working with SEN youngsters and those with a disability have spread
into more schools than before, with the Foundations own inclusive sessions
engaging with other 500 youngsters and young adults with a disability. All
of this work is done with a view to those participants then being able to
follow a pathway into other sessions, just like any other participant. Many
Disability groups and charities now come to the Foundation to access their
coaches to deliver football or multi-sport sessions, host and run
tournaments, seek advice or even book awareness talks delivered by the head
of inclusion.
"It is important to us at the Foundation that our work is never seen in any
way as a 'tick-box' exercise", said Austin Hughes, Community Sport Manager
at the Foundation. "We have put on great sessions and linked many more
participants, not just specifically to football but physical activity as a
whole, which can bring many health benefits. Our next aim is to start to
spread that awareness and inclusive nature onwards."
The PL/BT Disability Fund was launched as a national programme to be
delivered by 22 clubs in 2016 to create possibilities for disabled people
through sport - helping to remove the barriers that mean, at present,
disabled people are half as likely to participate in sport as non-disabled
people.
During that first season, the West Ham United Foundation played a prominent
role, not only supporting the launch of the programme here at the Stadium
but also delivering some great support and sessions. After a great first
season, how exactly could the Foundation build on what it has already done?
One of the first actions for the new year within the PL/BT Disability Fund
has been to bring the parents and families around the participants closer to
the work – and Sajid has immediately benefited from this shift. Around any
disability, especially those such as Autism of which Sajid's son Luka lives
with, it can be difficult for parents to find that time to link with their
children doing what they enjoy.
"All parents are passionate about their children, so we know exactly what it
can mean to other parents to learn that they can become involved in this
way" said Austin. "That's why we were so keen to be able to offer this
coaching qualification to Sajid."
Sajid has now completed his FA Level 1 coaching badge through the
Foundation, and will not only be able to coach as a volunteer, but also be
able to link directly with his son in doing something that he enjoys. Rather
than standing to the side and just watching, Sajid can now become a very
real part of the sessions his son enjoys. His point of view as a parent will
also further guide and help the Foundation in setting more sessions, as well
as bring reassurance to any parents bringing new youngsters to our sessions.
For Sajid, this is just the beginning. "I'm delighted to have my coaching
badge now, and thank the West Ham United Foundation for all their support
through it. I'm now looking forward to getting out on the grass and
coaching!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Boleyn Ground legacy continues as car park turned into school
playground
ES Sport
West Ham have extended their proud connection with Upton Park after Hammers
legend Sir Trevor Brooking opened new recreational facilities in the shadow
of the former Boleyn Ground. The new sports and play area, built on the
former site of the ground's car park which was gifted to St Edward's
Catholic Primary School in Green Street, was opened by Sir Trevor, Hammers
Under-23s midfielder Noha Sylvestre and Ladies' vice-captain Amber Stobbs.
Speaking at the school, Sir Trevor said: "In the heart of East London, to
get an area the size of this is fantastic and what they've put on it is
amazing really. The only downside is that the kids won't want to go to their
lessons! "The youngsters are going to have a lot of fun, it's all in claret
and blue and that link to the club is very strong. It's important for those
that have been here quite a while to retain that link with the club because
we're now only in striking distance of the old ground and the claret and
blue at the school will make sure that there is a lasting legacy here."
Headteacher at St Edward's, Chris Mabey, praised the West Ham United
Foundation's involvement in the school, saying: "Having the Foundation in
the school really motivates the students and they really look forward to
having the coaches in the school. "After years of wishing that we could have
a playground like this, and when West Ham decided they'd be moving onto the
London Stadium, we didn't imagine anything on this scale. It has really
transformed playtimes, PE and outdoor learning and the pupils' whole school
day."
St Edward's Catholic School, who were previously based on the site of the
former ground, was relocated at West Ham's expense in September 2000 to the
present site in Green Street following the development of a new main stand
at the Boleyn Ground in 2000.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lanzini facing another month off
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 18th September 2017
By: Staff Writer
Manuel Lanzini - who was tipped to return against Tottenham this weekend -
is unlikely to play again until the end of the next international break. The
Argentine midfielder has featured just the once for West Ham since damaging
a knee during the club's pre-season tour of Austria and Germany and,
according to Head Medic Gary Lewin, is unlikely to be seen again until
mid-October at the earliest. "Manuel is still on schedule in terms of his
rehabilitation from the knee injury that he irritated up at Newcastle last
month," Gary Lewin told whufc.com. "He is back on the training pitches and
working hard, and we are looking at him being available again after the next
international break."
The 24-year-old played the entire second half of West Ham's 3-0 defeat at St
James Park on 26 August having replaced Declan Rice at half time, but has
been ruled out since. He is likely to miss the forthcoming Carabao Cup clash
against Bolton (Carabao Cup) and the Premier League matches against
Tottenham (h), Swansea (h) and Burnley (a).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collins back by October
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 18th September 2017
By: Staff Writer
James Collins has been given the good news that he could be back in first
time action as early as the beginning of October. The 33-year-old centre
half collapased in agony midway through the second half of Saturday's
goalless draw against West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns and was
immediately diagnosed with ligament damage to the ankle. However a scan has
revealed that the damge is far less serious than first thought and as a
result, the Welsh international should be back in full training within two
to three weeks. "It's good news for James in the sense that it is not
long-term or as serious as it perhaps looked at the time," said West Ham's
experienced Head Medic Gary Lewin. "He is the type of player who will run
through brick walls for you and will be desperate to get back as quickly as
he can, but we will manage him very carefully and ensure he returns when the
time is right."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic defends Hernandez decision
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 18th September 2017
By: Staff Writer
Slaven Bilic appears determined to continue with Andy Carroll as his central
striker - despite forking out £16million during the summer in order to
purchase Javier Hernandez. The Mexican international cut a forlorn figure as
he trudged off the field at West Brom on Saturday afternoon having been
substituted for the second successive match after once again failing to make
an impact. The manager's insistance on playing Hernandez out of position on
the left of a three-pronged attack has led to much criticism from the fan
base - however Bilic seems determined to continue with his experiment in
order to accomodate Carroll. "Andy is always a threat," Bilic told
whufc.com. "It is very important for him to get the games under his belt. He
looks good now, touch wood. "This was his second game; he looks fit, he
looks competitive and the quality will come through in the games. It's a big
boost for us and hopefully long may it continue. "He looked unhappy [when
substituted] but we have quality players on the bench and we changed the
whole three up front because we had Ayew, Arnautovic and Sakho. I was very
happy with the way they kept the shape, defended and pressed."
Carroll, who was replaced by Diafra Sakho with eight minutes of play
remaining at The Hawthorns enjoyed three of West Ham's nine efforts at goal
during the game. Meanwhile Hernandez, playing to the left of Carroll didn't
take a single shot - and managed to touch the ball just ONCE in Albion's box
during the entire match.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's James Collins set to miss a month after suffering ankle injury in
West Brom draw
KEN DYER
ES Sport
West Ham centre-half James Collins looks set to face at least a month out of
action after injuring an ankle in the goalless draw at West Brom. The Wales
defender was due to have a scan today and there are fears he could have
suffered ligament damage. The 34-year-old has played a significant role in
West Ham's defensive improvement after they conceded 10 goals in their first
three Premier League matches and his absence will be a major blow for
manager Slaven Bilic. For the matches against Huddersfield and West Brom,
the Hammers boss changed to a back-three, including the vastly-experienced
Collins, and his team kept clean sheets in both games. Collins picked up the
injury in the first half but carried on before having to be replaced after
half-time. Bilic was today hoping that the injury is not too serious, but
Collins is certain to miss next Saturday's home match against Tottenham and
the match against Swansea seven days later. Bilic has options, with Angelo
Ogbonna, who looks certain to play against Bolton in tomorrow's Carabao Cup
tie, coming in or moving Pablo Zabaleta into a back-three. Zabaleta is
highly likely to be rested for tomorrow's match against Bolton. The
Argentine has been booked four times this season and needs just one more
yellow card before being given a one-match ban. Bilic is sure to make other
changes, too, with Andy Carroll and Javier Hernandez likely to be rested.
Captain Mark Noble is fit again after injury and should come in, along with
full-backs Arthur Masuaku and Sam Byram. Marko Arnautovic, who came on as a
second-half substitute at West Brom after serving a three-match ban, will be
given more game time, while Diafra Sakho is also expected to start.
Meanwhile, Bilic has answered criticism that he is playing Hernandez out of
position. The Mexico striker has been deployed in a wide left role in the
last two matches but Bilic said: "He was not wide-wide, but more off the
striker."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'It is almost impossible' Slaven Bilic admits he is struggling to fit West
Ham duo Javier Hernandez and Andy Carroll into their positions
JACK ROSSER
ES Sport
West Ham manager Slaven Bilic says it is 'almost impossible' to fit both
Andy Carroll and Javier Hernandez up front together. Since the return of
Carroll to the starting eleven, the former Manchester United striker, who
joined the Hammers from Bayer Leverkusen over the summer, has been deployed
out on the left-wing to little effect. Against both Huddersfield and West
Brom the Mexican international struggled to get into the areas in and around
the penalty area where he has been so successful in the Premier League,
although he did strike the crossbar against the Terriers. "It is possible,"
Bilic said when asked about playing the pair up front together. "I am
thinking about them the most but it is hard to have them both in their
natural positions. "It is hard to do that and then have three at the back,
then with Antonio and Arnautovic, it is almost impossible."
The Croatian also revealed that, in an attempt to manage his fitness,
Carroll will play no part in their League Cup Third Round tie with Bolton
Wanderers on Tuesday night. "We have to manage him," he added. "He looks
good and fit, hopefully he will last for ages now without an injury, touch
wood. "He isn't going to play tomorrow."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fans urge Bilic to give Sead Haksabanovic his first start against
Bolton
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham United take on Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday
night. West Ham United are in Carabao Cup action on Tuesday night, as they
take on League One side Bolton Wanderers at the London Stadium. The Hammers
beat Cheltenham Town in the last round of the competition to set up a Third
Round clash with Bolton, as Slaven Bilic looks to pick up a victory. After
beating Huddersfield Town 2-0 last Monday night for their first league win
of the season, West Ham picked up a point with a 0-0 draw at West Brom on
Saturday. Tuesday's clash with Bolton gives Bilic a chance to rotate his
side, with summer signing Sead Haksabanovic possibly hoping to make his
first start for the club. Haksabanovic, 18, joined West Ham from Swedish
side Halmstads after hitting 13 goals in 70 games, and the Hammers now hope
that he can develop into a first-team star. The midfielder, who already has
one cap for Montenegro to his name, hasn't featured for the West Ham first
team yet, and fans believe that facing Bolton gives Bilic the ideal chance
to play him. Fans took to Twitter to name their ideal line-ups for the game
against Bolton, and many included Haksabanovic in their side, believing this
is the perfect opportunity to see him in action. Others have noticed that
Haksabanovic wasn't in the West Ham Under-23 side against Liverpool this
evening, suggesting that he could be in the squad for Tuesday night – and
fans are begging to see him in action alongside fellow youngster Nathan
Holland.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bilic transcript: Every word from the West Ham boss on Carroll & Hernandez,
stability & Bolton clash
Miss anything from the press conference? We've got you covered
Football london
COMMENTS
BYSAM INKERSOLE
15:22, 18 SEP 2017
How happy were you with the point at West Brom?
Look, we wanted to win the game of course but a point away is never a bad
point if we look at the big picture. If we look at the week, our priorities
to solve after Newcastle game - we conceded ten goals, we needed our
priority being getting stability back. Since then we have been working on
that, we got four points, two clean sheets, changed the system a little bit
and that worked for us really well. So we have the stability back, we
stopped that fall, you know? To be fair, we stopped the opponent by in two
games creating maybe one chance. It's a lot to build on, we can feel it
during, after the games, training, now is the time to get the second part of
being very dangerous and creating chances. So, that game was not a beautiful
game but very few are up there. Not just down to them but also on us, the
priority was to be compact, solid and stop them from counter attacking or
being dangerous in their patterns and not to be like last year were we were
4-0 down in an hour. We are not overwhelmed with our performance, we have to
add to that, add more creation and chances, that will come with confidence,
maintaining this pattern with points and also with some players to come
bacj. We are missing that kind of player creating things, for that I mean
mostly Manuel Lanzini.
How much of a blow to lose James Collins?
It looked worse, could have been a few months but it's only going to be a
few weeks. He done the scan, it is not ideal of course, but I expected worse
to be fair.
The Foster incident? The red card? No. I saw before a lot of those, when you
play at home the referee gives the red card but this was a fair decision
from the referee. He wasn't the last man and it was just mis-timed, not
brutal.
All points with Andy Carroll - how good is it to have him back?
Two things have hapened. We changed system then at the same time, he has
been available for us. Of course we have to manage him, he looks good, fit
and is training, hopefully he will last because that was his problem for
ages. He isn't going to play tomorrow for example, we have to try to manage
him. We tried that last year, two years ago too to be fair but it didn't
help. We are doing it a bit differently this season, maybe he was available
for Newcastle but knowing he had the break, gave us two more week,s we said
no, let him train. Definitely we will never say never of course but we will
never rush him or let him, when he just comes back, avoid him playing three
games a week for 90 minutes.
What is the chance of Javier Hernandez and Andy Carroll forming a number
9/10 partnership?
It is very hard to please everyone. It is possible of course, I think about
that the most but it is hard to put them in their ideal positions. It looks
really good on paper and is easy to do that but then it is hard to have
three at the back, plus Antonio, Arnautovic and Ayew, it is almost
impossible. It is nice to have the options but you want them all on the
pitch at the same time so of course I am thinking about that. OK, Chicharito
is not playing in an ideal position but I spoke to him, he is a great lad
and we have priorities and we need you there. He is doing the job, that was
a priority now we have to keep the stability, we can't lose it. Then we will
put the team out equally as good in possession which we are going to do but
we are still waiting for Lanzini to come back and give us creativity. It
will give the players in front of him with better service him with better
service.
What do you want to get out of the game tomorrow?
It is a big game for us. That's all we think about. We are very ambitious in
the club, all of the club. If you have a look at the round before, teams
were strong out there. There are some changes tomorrow but thats because we
want to give them a chance to play. But we are ambitious, we are playing at
home against Bolton and there will be some changes but it will be players
who played Premier League this season and last. As I said, we want to
progress because you never know in a cup, with a bit of luck, you are there.
Managing Andy, what do you mean by that?
We didn't rush him. Every day he is involved in something. His history tells
us he needs to be managed in an individual way but you can have too any of
the, this is not tennis. He is great in the group and we are doing that. So
far, he looks really good you know, we are going to try to use every
opportunity to keep him fit, long term.
Attacking players, a surprise scoring is a problem?
You have those kind of options in every club. I am not talking about the
big, big clubs but others. OK, we play West Brom, they had players like a
good line up, Phillips, Rodriguez, Brunt etc. Rondon was on the bench, Burke
was not there, Chadli was not there, you need the squad. The goals have been
a problem OK, we didn't score a lot, four in total. OK, we got some chances
against Huddersfield, the only games we didn't create was Newcastle and then
this last game against West Brom very much. To be fair, you have to give
them a lot of credit because not any teams do there or against them. It's
hard to create clear cut chances against them. I am also praising two clean
sheets. It's not just down to the keeper, defence and two defensive
midfielders, everyone is doing their job and helping them alot. I am
expecting better service a little bit, we are not creating enough if we talk
about Saturday. It's not down to three up front that they didn't move or
have a bad day in the office, they need good service. Especially against
teams who defend so deep like West Brom for only three of them it was
difficult to create anything, they need better servuce.
An article said you haven't turned the corner just yet but can see the
corner now, fair?
There is no time in football. I am the first one who would like to do it
sort it on one session. Thats a good line you know. We know what we want, we
lost three games, he crisis started too early but it was there anyway. It's
happened, thats modern football I accept it but I have to stop it. How do we
do it, lets do it step by step. Its very important, lets get that thing
back, stability, stubbornness and also play football. Did we get it, yes, we
got it good. We see the players are glad now, the back three especially and
the two holding midfielders, yes we are. We could have scored more against
Huddersfield but we have to go to the next step now without losing this one.
It has to stay and we have to fins the solutions, on paper, on the pitch, to
be as dangerous upront but without losing the stability Is it possible, yes
it is but we can't lose what we have now because we have worked so hard for
it.
Will you put out a strong side tomorrow?
Strong side but there will be some changes. Not because we are not
ambitious, we are dreaming about the cup, with a bit of luck and good
performances, you need three of them, don't need 35 of them. We can get
there. We are looking towards that competition but come on, with a good draw
we have with respect to Bolton, but considering lasts season we had Chelsea,
Man United or City this is a good draw, a home game but it's going to be
tough. Not only are they on the list of professionals they have already
played for us, have earned their chance and sooner or later they will get a
shot in the Premier League. I told them that, it's a good opportunity. If we
are looking for improvement a few of the paces are quite open and it is up
to them to impress me, the staff and the fans on the pitch.
What do want out of the game?
Well, obviously the best would be an easy win win and then maybe to rest
some players but again, we are playing against a Championship side who did
not have a good start of course, but we are playing them, it's never easy,
it's always hard and difficult, a tough game but we are looking to win of
course, without getting injuries and fatigue if possible but it isn't going
to be easy. We have to be on top of our game, if we drop five per cent of
anything because then, somehow your team performance energy and quality
drops 85 per cent instead.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE - Robert Snodgrass doesn't know if he has West Ham future and
praises John Terry's influence at Aston Villa
TalkSport
By Billy Hawkins - @bhawkinsss
Monday, September 18, 2017
Robert Snodgrass has responded to questions regarding his future as a West
Ham player, admitting he cannot say if he will play for the east London club
again.
Snodgrass, the Scotland winger, signed for Slaven Bilic's Hammers in January
for a £10.2m fee, leaving Hull after a superb opening half of their doomed
Premier League campaign.
He played 15 games for West Ham during the rest of the 2016/17 season, but
Bilic did not see the 30-year-old as part of his plans for the current term
and agreed to loan him out to Championship side Aston Villa for the duration
of the season.
Snodgrass has played three games since his arrival in the Midlands, and he
spoke to talkSPORT on Monday to discuss his time at the club so far –
answering the big question about his future as a West Ham player.
Asked by Jim White if he will ever play for the Hammers again, Snodgrass
replied: "It's very difficult to say, because you just don't know in
football where you're going to be or what the next chapter is.
"But I made the decision for the next chapter now to be at Aston Villa, and
my full heart and determination is to try and get the club back where it
belongs."
Snodgrass was one of seven arrivals at Villa Park over the summer, as Steve
Bruce built a team with a view to promotion back to the Premier League. Sam
Johnstone and Josh Onomah were, like the Scot, loan signings, while Ahmed
Elmohamady, Christopher Samba and Glenn Whelan came in on permanent deals.
However, none of those arrivals had the same impact as the signing of John
Terry on a free transfer after his Chelsea contract expired. Capturing the
Stamford Bridge legend was seen as a real coup for Villa seeing as he
fielded offers from the Premier League and across the globe, and he has
started all eight of Villa's league games having been named captain prior to
the start of the season.
Snodgrass has been impressed by Terry's impact since arriving at the club,
claiming the former England skipper has been working to change the mood
around Villa Park 'like the leader he is'.
"John's been great," Snodgrass added. "It's sort of different for John,
where he's been at Chelsea for years and it's a new sort of set up for him.
"He's come in and had to meet new lads, and slowly but surely implement his
character on the changing room. It's not been shouting to the rooftops… it's
just been quietly going about like the leader he is, trying to change little
things here and there. Because it is different when you move clubs.
"He's had to go in, and I think he's been asked by the manager to try and
get things and standards and lifting everybody. And he's doing that well,
but it takes time sometimes."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manuel Lanzini set to provide West Ham with massive injury boost ahead of
Bolton clash - report
He's been missed so far this season
Football London
BYADAM JONES
07:00, 18 SEP 2017
Manuel Lanzini could be set to provide West Ham with a major fitness boost
going in to this week's fixture against Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup.
The playmaker has missed the majority of the campaign for the Hammers so far
in 2017/18 - with his only appearance coming in the 3-0 defeat to Newcastle
United last month. His influence has been sorely missed by Slaven Bilic's
side for most of this season too after being influential for West Ham last
campaign with eight goals in 39 games in all competitions. Now, according to
Claret&Hugh, Lanzini could be about to give the Hammers a welcome boost and
could be involved against Bolton this week. The Argentine international is
now back in training with the club, but will be lacking match fitness.
However, the report suggests that Slaven Bilic may well be willing to give
Lanzini some much need game-time as he continues his recovery from injury.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham forward Javier Hernandez a little lost on the wing as Slaven Bilic
looks to find best attacking solution
Javier Hernandez may have to get used to playing on the wing for West Ham
Slaven Bilic was under pressure following three defeats before Huddersfield
win
Bilic knows scrutiny will return with more blunt showings like at the
Hawthorns
Grzegorz Krychowiak was the star performer for West Brom during stalemate
By Laurie Whitwell for the Daily Mail
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 17 September 2017 | UPDATED: 00:33, 18 September 2017
Javier Hernandez may have been brought to West Ham as a penalty-box poacher
but since the return of Andy Carroll a different task has been asked of him.
Out of the 18-yard area and on to the wing, Hernandez has been spotted
tracking back, dropping deep and cutting in, and Slaven Bilic says it is a
role the Mexican may have to get used to. Bilic is still juggling how best
to fit West Ham's attacking array together and the 0-0 draw at West Bromwich
Albion showed the current system needs refining. Bilic's side had only one
shot on target – an effort from range by Michael Antonio – and Hernandez,
the £16million summer signing, had scant opportunity to illustrate the kind
of predatory instinct that was in evidence during his brace at Southampton
earlier this season. On reflection a point at the Hawthorns was further
solace to Bilic after the win over Huddersfield, yet the Croatian knows the
scrutiny that fell on his position during three straight defeats will return
if West Ham continue as bluntly in attack. Thwarted by a team as defensively
drilled as West Brom, Bilic looked for the positives. 'We are getting that
confidence back as a team,' he said. 'We were attacking. But to get three
points you need quality up front, which we didn't have. The strikers were
fighting and were part of the team but we could do more. 'We played with
three strikers. There were a lot of positives by pressing them, keeping the
ball, but if we are talking about shots on target there wasn't much of that.
SUPER STAT
Gareth Barry equalled Ryan Giggs' Premier League record of 632 appearances
and also became the first player to start 600 Premier League games.
'Hernandez was not wide-wide, we are playing with three or five at the back
so he is more off the striker. Of course in defensive work they were coming
deep, which is why I am praising them.' Tony Pulis was satisfied by securing
a clean sheet. Grzegorz Krychowiak's classy display in midfield, while not
fully fit, hinted at the promise he possesses for this season. 'He still
feels that he is not sharp and as strong as he would like to be,' said
Pulis. 'He is going to be a really good player for us.'
Jake Livermore missed out due to mental fatigue after two games for England
and he will also be absent for the League Cup tie against Manchester City.
'Physically he is fine. But mentally he just feels a bit tired,' Pulis
added. 'Playing all the time has really taken it out of the boy. And he is
such a good player for us that we don't want to risk him going into a deeper
hole.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham star Jose Fonte insists Hammers are growing in confidence after
West Brom draw
JOSE FONTE is convinced West Ham are up off the canvas and ready to start
packing a punch.
PUBLISHED: 00:02, Mon, Sep 18, 2017 | UPDATED: 00:15, Mon, Sep 18, 2017
Express.co.uk
Jose Fonte thinks West Ham have turned the corner on their season Victory
over Huddersfield on Monday and this hard-fought draw adds up to a tasty
four points in a week. "We have most definitely got some momentum now and
the results will come," said Hammers defender Fonte. "The confidence is
coming. We've had two good results. Now we have to grab on to that, keep
winning and climb the table. "Unfortunately we didn't start the season well
but four points from two games – we have to take that. We're not in the
position that we want to be but it's only five games. And we're taking the
right steps." Four of their next six games are at home and suddenly things
are looking a whole lot brighter for West Ham boss Slaven Bilic.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jose Fonte finally looks to be justifying his place at West Ham United
HITC
Shane Callaghan
Jose Fonte continues to impress for West Ham United. In May, the consensus
among many West Ham United fans was that manager Slaven Bilic had wasted
close to £20 million in the previous January. Robert Snodgrass, signed for
£10 million, looked a pale imitation of Dimitri Payet, while £8 million
addition Jose Fonte did not look the same, commanding centre-back as he did
at Southampton. Fast forward four months and although Snodgrass is on loan
at Aston Villa, rubber-stamping his status as a waste of money, Fonte is now
proving good value for his. The Portugal defender has been a rare positive
in an otherwise shocking season for West Ham, who have won only one of their
first five Premier League games. Deployed in a three-man defence, the
33-year-old, who turns 34 in December, looks far more comfortable than he
had done for large spells in a West Ham shirt last season. He impressed
again in Saturday's 0-0 draw at West Bromwich Albion - a good result if only
for the fact it wasn't another away defeat - and Bilic will surely keep that
formation going forward. The under-fire manager could and should tinker with
some of his options in that system, namely not playing Javier Hernandez out
wide, but it's clear to see the defence is enjoying it.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham not turned the corner yet, but Slaven Bilic reckons they can see it
from here
It's now four points from six after West Brom stalemate for a side that
started Prem season with three straight losses
The Mirror
COMMENTS
BYJAMES NURSEY
22:30, 17 SEP 2017UPDATED22:57, 17 SEP 2017
Slaven Bilic has halted West Ham's slide but admits their season still hangs
in the balance. The Hammers boss was the hot favourite for the sack, along
with Crystal Palace's Frank de Boer, as both clubs made poor starts to the
Premier League season. But while De Boer was axed by the Eagles after
opening his reign with four top-flight defeats in a row, Bilic, who is in
the final year of his contract, survived taking no points from the first
nine available. The Croat stopped the rot with a 2-0 victory at home to
promoted Huddersfield last Monday and his men followed that up with a
determined display on the weekend to earn a point at West Brom with a
goalless draw. They did not do enough to win the game — each side had just
one shot on target — but after a second clean sheet in a week, Bilic expects
his 17th-placed Hammers to soon be climbing up the table. He said: "We
can't say we've turned the season around. It's too early to say this. But we
get the confidence back and get the pattern back. We definitely have
something to be positive about. "To have two clean sheets is very important
for the whole team. Hopefully, we are going to do better in the last third
of the pitch."
West Ham's Pedro Obiang provided a rare moment of quality, spotting Ben
Foster off his line and hitting the bar with a shot from just outside the
centre circle.
After the break, Foster was arguably lucky to escape with only a booking as
he raced from the box and took out the on-rushing Javier Hernandez The match
was most notable for former England midfielder Gareth Barry's 632nd Premier
League appearance , equalling the record set by Ryan Giggs. Hammers
defender Jose Fonte said: "Unfortunately, we didn't start the season well
but four points from two games – we have to take that. "We're not in the
position we want to be but it's only five games. We're working to take the
right steps. We have some momentum now and the results will come. We've had
two good results. Now we must grab that and keep winning and if we can go
on a run, we will climb the table."
The Irons, who started Andy Carroll alongside Hernandez and Michail
Antonio, have enough firepower. They also brought on £24million new boy
Marko Arnautovic, Andre Ayew and Diafra Sakho in off the bench.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LEAGUE CUP MEMORIES OF 1972
By Tony Hanna 17 Sep 2017 at 17:52
WTID
I wrote last week that I really feel for the younger generation of West Ham
fans that have seen us win – nothing. I guess the Play Off final of 2012
somewhat duplicates the emotions of a big Cup Final win but it would be nice
if we could win some proper silverware again. Perhaps Tuesdays game against
Bolton will be the second stepping stone to something special this season?
However, today I look back at the 1972 League Cup and the amazing run it
took us all on. It was a ride filled with all manner of footballing emotions
from exhilarating to despair and everything in between. Amazing to think
these events occurred over 45 years ago!
West Ham's League Cup run started with a draw at home to Cardiff before
winning the replay 2-1 in Wales. Never like to do things the easy way do we?
Next up was Don Revie's mighty Leeds. Again a draw at home followed by a
totally unexpected 1-0 win in the replay at Elland Road after extra time!
What did I say about the easy way? Two games down and both had gone to
replays with one going to extra time. Just to ensure things did not get
easier our next game was to be against Liverpool at home. More than 40,000
packed Upton Park that night as Pop Robson scored a late winner in a 2-1
victory. So to the quarter final and Pop scored a hat trick in a 5-0 win
against Sheffield United. These two games had been the typical vintage type
Hammers games under the lights. Cracking atmospheres and proper football
played in the cool mist of an East End autumns night. As the steam rose off
of the players the chants and singing from both North and South banks was
relentless. But more was to come. What was promised was a two legged home
and away semi- final against Stoke City, but what was delivered was quite
extraordinary.
The first leg was at Stoke and we came home with a 2-1 win and the Hammers
were just 90 minutes away from Wembley. The second leg at Upton Park saw
Stoke take the lead in the 73rd minute after a Tommy Taylor and John
McDowell mix up. In the final minutes there came a memory I have never
forgotten. I was right behind the North Bank goal to witness Harry Redknapp
brought down in the box and Geoff Hurst stepped up to take the penalty that
would have sent us to Wembley. Hurst was a brilliant penalty taker in his
day. He always put the ball in the same spot but the power he hit the ball
made it almost impossible for a goal keeper to stop. Well, history tells
that Gordon Banks was to save Geoff's spot kick and take us to extra time
yet again. We huffed and we puffed that final 30 minutes but to no avail. So
a third game was necessary and that was played at Hillsborough where the
kick off was to be delayed by traffic congestion. Yet again it went to extra
time but with no score it was to go to a fourth match to finally decide our
fate. Ron Greenwood had lost the toss after the match for choice of venue
and then found out that the team coach had been sabotaged. During the game
someone had taken the petrol cap off and filled the tank with sand!
So on to the 26th January, nearly two months after the two teams first met,
we trudged off to Old Trafford on the wettest and windiest night you could
imagine. The stadium was under renovation at the time and Hammers fans that
were there that night would remember there was no shelter for us against the
elements. The match was packed with incident, starting with Stokes Terry
Conroy kicking our keeper Bobby Ferguson "accidentally" in the head.
Ferguson had to go off and Bobby Moore volunteered to go in goal. There was
not the luxury of three subs back in those days and Ron Greenwood was hoping
Ferguson would come good with a small spell off the pitch before considering
our only substitute, Peter Eustace. Within minutes Stoke had a penalty and
incredibly Bobby Moore saved Mike Bernard's shot only for the rebound to be
drilled back for the opening goal. Still playing with ten men and with Moore
in goal, Billy Bonds fired us level and back in with a chance. A sublime
Trevor Brooking volley put us 2-1 ahead before Dobing made it 2-2. Ferguson
was to return in the second half but Stoke were to try and take every
opportunity to exploit Ferguson's now dodgy vision and Conroy struck the
winner as we continually back pedalled to try and provide extra cover for
him.
It was finally all over! That Cup run saw us play ten games with three going
to extra time and the four matches against Stoke saw 420 minutes played in
front of a total attendance exceeding 170,000. In days of muddy pitches and
no penalty shoot outs, this tie will never be forgotten by fans who
witnessed the incredible marathon. Stoke went on to beat Chelsea 2-1 in the
final. It is their only major trophy in the clubs history. They were to go
on to finish 17th in the "old" first division that season whilst we finished
14th. Two of the teams we beat on our run, Leeds and Liverpool came 2nd and
3rd to Champions Derby County in a season where just one point separated the
top four.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
